During the first session I take a full medical history and investigate in detail the presenting complaint. This is followed by a careful physical examination sometimes incorporating medical equipment to help with the diagnosis. Utilizing a highly developed sense of touch, I use my hands to identify abnormalities in the structure and function of a body, and to assess areas of weakness, tenderness, restriction or strain. Other tests such as neurological testing, blood pressure, X-Ray or MRI investigations may be carried out or arranged if necessary.  Once a diagnosis is reached, a treatment plan is discussed and commenced, taking into account your age, general health, physical health and any other relevant factors.

I work with my hands using a wide range of manual techniques according to the individual's age, physique and particular problem. Techniques range from:

• Soft-tissue stretching techniques to release muscle tension
• Digitopressure technique
• Strain Counterstrain technique
• Chapman technique
• Gentle articulations to realign and improve joint mobility
• Mobilizations and gentle manipulation to increase the range of movement of a joint
• Cranial treatment, which given its gentle nature is very suitable for babies but can benefit anyone
• Neuromuscular release techniques, which allow a contracted muscle to release and free a restricted nerve supply
• Lymphatic drainage techniques to improve circulation throughout your body and enhance your immune system
• Visceral techniques, to release internal organ strains

I also provide advice on posture, health and exercise, to aid recovery and prevent symptoms from reoccurring, and to promote health and quality of life. After an osteopathic treatment, patients may feel stiff or sore, similar to post-exercise soreness. This is normal and self-resolves within 24-48 hours, leaving the benefits from the treatment.

In general, the first treatment lasts about 1 hour, and subsequent treatments around half an hour.  Your first appointment is usually slightly longer to allow for a full case history to be taken. 

MRC is not contracted with any insurance company. We charge cash and you take an official receipt so you can collect your money from the insurance 

I consider each person as an individual. MRCs’ patients include people in all stages of life: newborns, the elderly, manual workers, office-based professionals, pregnant women, children and sports people. Babies and children are especially suitable for Osteopathy in the Cranial Field.

I focus on the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders without the use of drugs or surgery. Patients seek treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including:

• back ⁄ neck ⁄ shoulder pain
• joint deterioration
• muscle pains
• repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
• restricted mobility
• pregnancy related problems
•  postural problems caused by work strain,
• headaches & migraines,
• arthritis pain
• sports injuries,
• Trapped nerves & sciatica.
• Stress related problems
• Menstrual problems
• Bad posture
• Jaw pain
• Colic and Sleeplessness in babies
• Frozen shoulder
• Visceral problems
• And almost any pain involving your body structure

Even when symptom free, regular maintenance treatment helps to keep the body flexible and healthy and to prevent injuries.

Most patients 'self-refer' to an osteopath for treatment.  Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed, so that their medical records are current and complete and the patient receives the best possible care from both healthcare practitioners.

Yes.  Not only GPs refer patients to osteopaths where they believe this intervention would be beneficial, some patients visit us after seeing an Orthopedist, a pediatrician, a dentist...  

Prevention is often very necessary when there is no current pain, to treat underlying stresses and strains. Indeed, you do not have to be in pain on the day of the treatment. You do not have to wait for a particularly painful episode to settle before visiting MRC. Most back pain, for example, is easier to treat in its early stages.

Some patients have instant relief. Others discover it can take more time. Many factors can affect your recovery such as your age, how long you’ve had the problem, severity, your daily demands and general condition of your body.

Whilst every patient reacts differently, I will be able to advise you on your likely recovery time. In most cases you will feel a definite change for the better early on in your treatment. Most patients do express significant improvement after just one or two treatments, but in general, the longer you’ve had it, the longer it will take to recover. Your commitment to the recommended treatment plan, home exercises and any diet or lifestyle adjustments will also determine your treatment outcome and your long term benefits from osteopathic care.

Patients are generally advised to wear underwear that they feel comfortable in, sports kit or shorts. It will be more beneficial for an osteopath to be able to examine a patient’s whole body. This enables a more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment.

Friends or family members are always welcome to sit in during the treatment. Adult supervision is required when children under the age of 16 are treated.