Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about osteopathy and appointments at my Leeds practice. If your question isn't covered here, feel free to get in touch.
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal problems. As a registered osteopath, I use my hands to identify areas of restriction, tension, or imbalance in the body and treat them using techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and manipulation. Osteopathy is a regulated healthcare profession in the UK, and all practising osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
Your initial consultation lasts 45 minutes. I'll start by taking a detailed case history, asking about your symptoms, medical background, and lifestyle. I'll then carry out a physical examination, which may include postural and movement assessments. From there, I'll explain my findings, give you a working diagnosis, and begin hands-on treatment in the same session. You'll leave with a clear understanding of what's going on and a plan for getting better.
It depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and how your body responds to treatment. Many patients notice significant improvement within two to three sessions. After your initial consultation, I'll give you an honest estimate of the number of appointments I think you'll need. I don't believe in booking unnecessary sessions — my goal is to get you better as efficiently as possible.
Most patients find treatment comfortable and even relaxing. Some techniques — particularly deep tissue work on tight muscles — can cause mild discomfort, but I'll always check in with you and adjust my approach accordingly. It's normal to feel a bit achy for a day or two after treatment, similar to how you might feel after exercise. This usually settles quickly and is a sign that your body is responding well.
Osteopathy can help with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including back pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches, shoulder and elbow problems, hip and knee pain, sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, postural issues, and pregnancy-related aches. If you're unsure whether osteopathy is suitable for your condition, feel free to call for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
No, you don't need a referral from your GP to see an osteopath. You can book directly with me. However, if you have a complex medical history or are currently under investigation for a condition, it can be helpful to let your GP know you're seeking osteopathic treatment. I'm always happy to communicate with your GP or other healthcare providers if needed.
While hands-on treatment needs to be carried out in person at my Leeds clinic, I do offer video consultations for exercise reviews, posture assessments, and follow-up advice. These can be a useful option if you're unable to attend the clinic or want guidance between appointments. Get in touch to discuss whether a virtual session would be appropriate for your situation.
You can book an appointment by filling in the contact form, calling me on 07700 900 471, or emailing email@yourdomain.com. I aim to respond to all enquiries within a few hours during working days. If you're not sure whether osteopathy is right for you, I offer a free 15-minute phone call so we can have a chat before you commit.