Trying something new for your health can feel a bit daunting, especially when it involves hands-on treatment. If you've booked your first osteopathy appointment at Canterbury Health Hub and are wondering what to expect, this guide will walk you through the process so you feel informed and at ease.
What Is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the body as a whole. Rather than just treating symptoms, osteopaths aim to address the root causes of pain and dysfunction using hands-on techniques like massage, stretching, and joint manipulation.
Before You Arrive
You’ll be asked to fill out a health history form, so arriving a few minutes early is helpful.
What to Wear
Opt for loose, comfortable clothing. You might be asked to change into a gown or undress to your underwear for the assessment, so wear something you’re comfortable in.
Your First Session
1. Discussion
Your osteopath will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and any previous injuries. This helps us get a full picture of your health.
2. Physical Assessment
We’ll then assess your posture, movement, and joint function. You might be asked to move in certain ways or perform simple movements, even if the issue seems isolated to one area.
3. Diagnosis and Plan
Once the assessment is done, we will explain our findings and suggest a treatment plan. We’ll walk you through what’s going on, how we plan to help you, what you can do to help yourself, and how long we expect your recovery to take.
Treatment
If appropriate, treatment will begin during the first session. Techniques may include:
- Soft tissue massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Stretching
- Spinal manipulation (only if needed and suitable)
Your comfort is always a priority, and your osteopath will check in regularly during the session.
Aftercare
After treatment, you might feel a little sore or tired for a day or two, similar to post-exercise soreness. Your osteopath may also offer advice on exercises, posture, and lifestyle to support recovery. Depending on your needs, you may require follow-up sessions or occasional maintenance care.
Your first Osteopathy appointment is the start of a personalised path to better movement and reduced discomfort. By understanding what to expect, you can step into your session with confidence and clarity.
Our friendly reception team at Canterbury Health Hub can help you with any questions you may have in the lead up to your appointment. Book your appointment here.