What to expect when you visit the clinic

This page gives a brief overview of what to expect at your appointment. More detailed information about individual treatment approaches can be found under the Treatments section of the website.

Initial consultation and treatment (adults – 1 hour)

At your first appointment Fiona will review your completed intake form, ask any further relevant questions and assess your posture and movement. This may involve standing, sitting and lying on the treatment table and you may be asked to undress to your underwear if appropriate. Please feel free to bring shorts or a sports bra if you would be more comfortable.

Findings and treatment options are discussed with you before treatment begins. Treatment may include a combination of soft tissue techniques, stretching, joint mobilisation and other osteopathic approaches as appropriate. Dry-needling (modern acupuncture) and Cranial Osteopathy may also be used with your consent.

Advice is given at the end of the appointment including self-management strategies, exercises and guidance on post-treatment soreness.

Babies: Cranial Osteopathy initial consultation and treatment (1 hour)

For baby appointments Fiona will ask about the pregnancy, birth and your baby’s feeding, sleeping and general health following completion of the online intake form. Assessment and treatment use very gentle cranial techniques and can take place with your baby in your arms, whilst feeding or upright. Many babies relax or sleep during treatment.

Parents are welcome to bring any items that help comfort or distract their baby, including feeding supplies if needed.

Follow-up treatments

Follow-up appointments focus on reviewing progress and continuing treatment as agreed. Advice and exercises are updated as appropriate.

Combined follow-up treatment (adults – 1 hour)

Longer follow-up appointments may combine structural Osteopathy with Cranial Osteopathy and or dry-needling where appropriate along with further advice and exercise guidance.