Booking your first appointment with a new practitioner can bring plenty of questions. We want you to feel comfortable, informed and confident about what to expect.
From your initial consultation and assessment to treatment and advice, here's how your first appointment at our Plymouth clinic works.
If there's anything you

Your initial appointment gives us time to understand your concerns, assess your symptoms and discuss the most appropriate options for your care.
Your osteopath will ask about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and what you'd like to achieve from your appointment.
We'll also discuss any previous investigations or treatments and answer your questions.
Depending on your symptoms, we'll carry out an appropriate physical assessment. This may include observing your posture and movement, examining the affected area and carrying out relevant clinical tests.
We'll explain what we're doing and make adjustments to suit your comfort.
We'll discuss our findings and explain the treatment options available to you.
If osteopathic treatment is appropriate and you consent, your appointment may include hands-on treatment and advice. If we think another healthcare professional or further investigation would be more suitable, we'll explain the next steps.
Before you leave, we'll discuss any relevant self-management advice, exercises or adjustments to everyday activities.
If further appointments are appropriate, we'll explain why and discuss your options. There is no obligation to commit to a course of treatment.
Choose clothing you can move in easily. Your osteopath will explain if any clothing adjustments are needed for assessment or treatment.
If you have relevant scan reports, medical letters or details of previous treatment, you're welcome to bring them along.
We'll ask about your medical history and any medication you're taking. Having an up-to-date list can be helpful.
Whether you want to get back to running, manage discomfort at work or move more comfortably, let us know what matters most to you.

We understand that visiting an osteopath for the first time may feel unfamiliar, particularly if you're experiencing pain.
Your osteopath will explain the proposed examination and treatment, discuss the available options and ask for your consent before proceeding.
Treatment may include hands-on techniques, movement advic
Before you leave, we'll discuss our findings, any treatment provided and what to expect afterwards.
Some people experience temporary soreness or stiffness following hands-on treatment. If this happens, it will often settle within a short period, although experiences vary.
Depending on your assessment, we may recommend exercises, movement advice or temporary changes to certain activities.
If further appointments are appropriate, we'll explain our reasoning and discuss a plan with you. We'll review your progress and adapt our approach where needed.
If you develop unexpected, severe or worsening symptoms after your appointment, seek appropriate medical advice.
Your first appointment includes a consultation, appropriate assessment and treatment where suitable.
Follow-up appointments allow us to review your progress and provide further treatment or advice where appropriate.
We are able to offer discounts such as Blue Light so please let us know if you are eligible and bring appropriate documentation to verify.
Please reach us at hello@firsttouchosteo.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No. You can normally book directly with an osteopath without a GP referral. If your symptoms require further medical assessment or investigation, we'll discuss the appropriate next steps.
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily is ideal. Depending on the area being assessed, your osteopath may ask whether you're comfortable adjusting or removing an item of clothing. Your privacy, comfort and preferences will always be respected.
Some techniques may feel uncomfortable, particularly when an area is already sensitive, but treatment should be adapted to your needs. Please tell your osteopath if anything feels too uncomfortable. You can request a change or stop treatment at any time.
Treatment is often possible during an initial appointment, but it depends on your symptoms and assessment. If further investigation or referral is more appropriate, we'll explain why.
This depends on your symptoms, medical history and individual goals. Following your assessment, we'll discuss whether further appointments are appropriate and review your progress as needed.
You're welcome to ask for someone to accompany you. Please contact us beforehand if you have any particular requirements so we can confirm the arrangements.
This depends on your symptoms, assessment and any treatment you've received. We'll discuss suitable activity levels and whether you should temporarily modify any exercise or training.
If your assessment suggests osteopathic treatment isn't appropriate, we'll explain our findings and recommend seeking advice from your GP or another suitable healthcare professional where necessary. We can refer you or make recommendations as necessary.
If you intend to claim through private health insurance, please contact us before booking to confirm the current arrangements and any information you may need from your insurer.
Please use the instructions in your booking confirmation or contact the clinic. We currently ask for at least 24 hours notice for a change or cancellation, otherwise you will be invoiced for the amount of the session.

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