What To Expect
Back pain is not normally caused by anything serious, though it is natural to worry about symptoms and the cause. An osteopath will always complete a routine examination that checks for more serious diagnoses and will advise and discuss with you any further action that might be required.
After an initial examination, an osteopath will discuss treatment options and decide jointly with a patient, an appropriate and suitable treatment plan, and the likely associated costs. This plan may involve several visits and may include hands on treatment such as massage, joint mobilisation, exercise advice, pain management advice and, very occasionally, further tests and/or referrals to another appropriate health care professional. Treatment may begin at the first appointment.
Osteopaths are highly trained professionals skilled in diagnosing health issues, including those that may require further investigation. The first visit to an osteopath will include questions about current symptoms and medical history. All information will be treated as confidential in accordance with the standards of practice set out by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), May 2018.
How an osteopath can help
Osteopathic practice is a safe and effective form of prevention, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of health problems, including back pain. Often back pain resolves quickly by itself but if it persists for more than a few days an osteopath may be able to help.
Osteopaths will often use gentle hands-on techniques to help resolve back pain, together with exercise and advice designed to promote and maintain the best environment for a healthy back. Research evidence shows that these osteopathic treatments can have beneficial effects, especially for back pain.
The UK National Institute of Health Care & Excellence (NICE) provides guidance for health services that recommend manual therapy, such as that provided by osteopaths, as part of a package of care for the management of low back pain and sciatica.
Osteopathic treatment is based on the individual needs of the patient and will vary depending on age, fitness and diagnosis but often focuses on releasing tension, stretching muscles and improving mobility – all of which may help relieve pain. There is no need to consult a GP before visiting an osteopath, although you may wish to do so.
Early diagnosis and treatment can aid recovery and get you back to normal activities more quickly. Around half of those who suffer an episode of back pain will have a recurrence of symptoms within a few years. Stress can increase the amount of pain you feel by magnifying the effect of tension and muscle spasms. An osteopath can give advice about methods to aid recovery and maintain a healthy back.
