If you're booking your first osteopathy appointment, it's completely normal to have a few questions. You might be wondering what to wear, what to bring, or what to expect on your first visit.

To help you feel prepared, we've put together this handy guide covering the most common questions we hear from new patients. We hope you find it helpful and look forward to welcoming you to the clinic.

What to bring

To help us get the best understanding of your health and current concerns, it's helpful to bring:

• Any scans, imaging, or test results you have such as X-rays, MRI, CT, ultrasound reports
• A list of your current medications and supplements
• Referral letters or reports from other healthcare providers, if you have them
• Details of any past injuries, surgeries, or treatments related to what's going on

Don't worry if you don't have all of these, just bring what you have available.

What to wear

Wear something comfortable that you can move around in. During your appointment, we may ask you to perform a few simple movements or, if appropriate expose the area we're assessing so we can examine it properly.

Activewear, shorts, leggings, loose t-shirt or a singlet are all great options, but the most important thing is for you to feel comfortable. Whatever you're comfortable in works, and we provide towels to ensure your privacy throughout the consultation.

A couple of things to keep in mind

Give yourself enough time to get to your appointment without rushing. Arriving a few minutes early gives you time to settle in, complete any missing paperwork or use the toilet, so we're not cutting into your consultation time.

Most importantly, don't worry if you're feeling a little nervous. Our osteopaths take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions and explain everything along the way, so you know exactly what is happening and why.

What actually happens at your first appointment?

Now that you know what to bring and how to prepare, here's what to expect during your first visit.

1. We'll start with a chat

We’ll start by talking through what’s been going on. This includes your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, work, activity levels, and anything else that might be relevant.

This helps us understand the bigger picture, so we can identify the underlying cause of your pain or movement concerns - not just where it hurts.

2. Physical assessment

Next, we'll check things like posture, movement, joint mobility, muscle function, strength, and flexibility, whatever's relevant to what you've come in for.

These assessments help us understand how your body is moving and allow us to develop the most appropriate treatment plan for you. We want to get to the root of the issue, not just the symptom.

3. We will explain what we find

Once we’ve completed the assessment, we’ll explain what we’ve found in clear, easy to understand language.

Then we'll discuss what we think is contributing to the issue, answer any questions you may have, and outline the treatment options available. We’ll take the time to go through everything with you, and you’re welcome to ask as many questions as you like.

We believe it's important you understand what's happening and feel confident about the plan to move forward.

4. Hands-on treatment 

If it’s appropriate, we’ll often begin treatment during this first appointment. This may include soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisation, stretching, muscle energy techniques (MET), or high velocity low amplitude  (HVLA) techniques - the gentle adjustments that can sometimes produce a familiar 'click'. If suitable, dry needling may also be recommended and will only be preformed with your consent.

Every treatment is tailored to your individual needs, comfort level and goals.

5. We'll create a plan together

Before you leave, we'll discuss the next steps in your recovery. This may include relevant exercises, ergonomics, things to adjust in daily life, self-management tips to help you get the most from your treatment.

We'll also let you know whether follow up appointments are recommended, if further investigations or imaging may be beneficial,  or if we would advise co-treating with other practitioners including your GP to ensure we are managing your symptoms effectively. 

The aim is to get you feeling better now, while also setting you up for better movement and function long-term. We also want to reduce the risk of your problem returning, and keep you healthy and active.