Take a thorough case history and diagnosis are key to understanding any health problem.

Initial osteopathic consultation and treatment takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Not knowing what is causing pain and discomfort can lead to unnecessary anxiety and speculation on the part of the patient.

Occasionally, patients will need to be referred for further tests: for example, blood analysis, X-rays, or an MRI. These can be done via referral to an NHS or private General Practitioner, or directly to the relevant specialist.

Follow-up treatments of approximately 30 minutes are sometimes needed, but the aim of osteopathic medicine is to address the primary cause of tissue dysfunction and to educate the patient in order that their health can be maintained.