Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
No – Most patients self-refer to see us. GP referral is not necessary, but we do get GP referrals too! We do encourage patients to keep both us and their GP fully informed so that their medical records are current and complete. This is to ensure you receive the best care possible.
Can I use my private health insurance?
Many health insurance companies provide cover for osteopathic treatment and you may be able to claim the cost of your Osteopathic treatment. Some policies may cover the full cost, and others may cover part. You may also have an allowance for other therapies that we offer, such as sports therapy, massage or shockwave therapy.
We highly recommend you contact your health insurer and check exactly what your policy covers as we do not deal with them directly. Insurance policies can vary so we recommend that you check your treatment, our clinic, and your practitioner will be covered if you are wanting to claim back treatment costs. If you are covered, please ask us for a receipt when you pay so that you can send this on to your insurance company to be reimbursed. All patients are required to self-fund treatment, and claim back themselves.
Carshalton Osteopathic Surgery is recognised by most health insurance providers.
How long will my appointment be?
All osteopath and shockwave sessions are 30 minutes.
Sports Therapy sessions you can choose a 30 or 60 minute appointment.
Sports Massage appointments you have the choice of 30, 60, 90 or 120 minute appointment.
Massage, Aromatherapy & Holistic Facial Rejuvenation with Jasmine are either 30 or 60 minute appointments.
What should I wear?
We highly recommend wearing or bringing shorts and a vest top for women. it is likely we will need you to remove some items of clothing so please do let us know if this makes you uncomfortable.
What might my treatment involve?
Treatment is hands-on and involves skilled manipulation of the spine and joints, and massage of soft tissues. Some of our osteopaths use gentle, subtle technique called cranial. We may also recommend other things like taping, dry needling or shockwave. We often provide you with exercise and self help advice too.
How much are consultations?
Osteopath sessions are £55 for both new and returning patients.
Massage, Shockwave Therapy and Sports Therapy costs vary so please see the individual pages.
Can I bring someone with me?
You can ask a friend or relative to accompany you and be present throughout your treatment. Children under 16 must have a parent/guardian attend appointments with them.
How will the appointment work?
Your osteopath/therapist will listen and ask questions to record in your case notes. We will then examine you and it is likely we will need you to remove some items of clothing so please do let us know if this makes you uncomfortable. We highly recommend wearing or bringing shorts and a vest top for women. We will ask you to perform simple movements to observe your mobility. We also examine your joints, muscles and ligaments using our hands. Osteopaths are trained to screen for medical conditions and signs of serious conditions that we cannot treat. If this is the case we may refer you to your GP or hospital.
Once your Osteopath has explained their diagnosis, they will discuss a treatment plan for you and the likely number of sessions you may need. Treatment is hands-on and includes techniques including skilled manipulation of the spine and joints, as well as massage of soft tissues. Please ask us questions at any time. We may also give you self-help and exercise advice to assist you until we see you next.
What will my therapist ask me?
We will ask questions about the problem you are presenting with, including how long you have had it, and what you think may have caused it, what makes it better or worse. We like to ask about work, hobbies, leisure activities and caring responsibilities as this helps us to give you the best care possible and tailor your treatment and management to you.
We will ask about pre-existing health / medical conditions as well as medications you are taking. We have a list of general questions we ask that gives us an idea of your health. All the information you provide is confidential.
Does treatment hurt?
Osteopathy is not usually painful but of course most patients present with pain, so if we are examining or working on areas of your body where pain is present then it may be a little uncomfortable or tender. Please let us know, we want to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Because of the physical hands-on nature of our treatment, it is not unusual to sometimes feel sore in the first 24- 72 hours post treatment. Your osteopath will explain any likely reactions that you could expect. If you have any concerns please contact us. It may require more than one visit before your problem is resolved and we will review your progress at each visit and change management accordingly.
Can I have treatment if I am having IVF treatment?
We have supported a number of patients through their IVF journey and appreciate how this can be difficult both emotionally and physically. If you are having IVF, please contact us as we will advise the best time for you to come in as it may vary for a number of personal reasons, and also on what treatment you’d like to have. If you give us a call, we can advise on your individual situation and find the best practitioner and treatment for you. It is often helpful to check with your consultant before you speak to us also to make sure they are happy with this. This applies to massage and osteopathic treatment sessions. We are more than happy to discuss the best approach to your care before you book an appointment. We want you to feel comfortable and have the best care possible.
Can I have treatment whilst pregnant?
Yes! Please contact us if you are pregnant as we will advise the best time for you to come in. It may vary for a number of personal reasons, and also on what treatment you’d like to have. If you give us a call, we can advise on your individual situation and find the best practitioner and treatment for you.
Can I have treatment after having my baby?
Absolutely, but again we would advise you give us a call to discuss your individual needs. We normally say around 6 weeks postpartum is a good time but it can depend on lots of things. We are more than happy to discuss the best approach to your care before you book an appointment. There is some more information on our pregnancy and post natal page.
Can I have treatment after surgery?
We help lots of patients post surgery, with the most common presentations being joint replacements like hip and knees, and after repair of muscles and / or tendons. We would recommend you checking with your surgeon how soon after surgery you can have hands-on therapy.
If you have had general surgery (for example appendectomy or cholecystectomy) and you need to see us for a complaint that appears unrelated it is best you give us a call to discuss so we can advise, as depending on your area of complaint and when you had the surgery, we may or may not be able to see you yet.
