Frequently Asked Questions
Here is where a lot of your questions will be answered. If your question is not listed here, please fill out the short form below and I will get back to you very soon.
What will my appointment look like?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that helps with a wide range of things. Very commonly, sore backs, hips, legs, arms and heads etc. Osteopathy also can help with headaches, migraines, digestive issues, nerve issues etc.
Osteopathy covers a lot of different aspects regarding any issues that the body can attract.
Initial Appointments are booked on 40-minute time frames, but the actual treatment time is closer to 15 minutes. The rest of the time is usually conversation and questions. Depending if you have any questions, the total time within the office could range from 20 to 40 minutes for Initial Appointments.
During the treatment, you will be manually assessed throughout your body. I will look for restrictions, asymmetries, tenderness, and any temperature changes. You will then be treated for any restrictions found using different methods of manual therapy to help release what was found.
Osteopathy is a collection of very gentle and slow-moving manipulations. However, as it may feel gentle and relaxing, you may also feel a small amount of tenderness later in the day or even the next morning.
What should I wear?
When coming in for an appointment, it is recommended that you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is not tight. Things not to wear to your treatment will include jeans, dresses, skirts, and coveralls.
Can I bring my child or children to my appointment?
Yes, they are more than welcome. There is a bench within the office where your child/children may sit and play while waiting for your treatment to be finished.
What do Osteopaths treat?
Osteopaths can treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and related symptoms, including:
Back pain
Neck pain
Joint pain & stiffness
Headaches & migraines
Sports injuries
Postural issues
Arthritis & other degenerative conditions
Repetitive strain injuries
Osteopaths may also provide preventive care and wellness advice to help patients maintain optimal musculoskeletal health and prevent future injuries.
Is Osteopathy safe for children?
Yes, Osteopathy is considered safe for children when performed by qualified practitioners experienced in pediatric osteopathy.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed varies depending on your individual condition, goals, and response to treatment.
During your initial consultation, your Osteopath will assess your needs and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific requirements.
Typically, an adult might need 3-6 sessions over a period of several weeks, however, if you have a longer term/chronic condition you may well require more sessions.
What should I wear to my appointment?
You are welcome to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. However, we recommend that you wear loose or comfortable clothing.
NO SKIRTS, DRESSES or JEANS - You can bring a pair of jogging pants or shorts to change into. Just arrive a few minutes early in order to change before your appointment starts.
Do Osteopaths treat by ‘cracking’ joints?
There are no high-velocity movements or cracking during treatments at Symmetry Health. The treatment will be gentle with slow manipulations.
How will I feel after my treatment?
Some patients feel a little sore 12 – 24 hours after the Osteopathic treatment..
Many patients feel immediate relief from some of their symptoms but most conditions can take a few sessions to get back to normal.
It is advisable to try and rest on the day of treatment.
Is there onsite parking?
Yes, there is parking very close to the entrance of Symmetry Health.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, there is a ramp just down the sidewalk from Symmetry Health.
Does treatment hurt?
The treatment is tailored to you. Therefore, we only use pressure and techniques you are comfortable with. Consent is always obtained prior to and during treatment and can be withdrawn at any time.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, Osteopaths are primary care practitioners. This means you don’t need to wait for a GP referral to see us.
How does Osteopathy differ from chiropractic or physiotherapy?
While all can be considered types of manual therapy, Osteopathy is a holistic approach that focuses on the relationship between the structure of the body and the way it functions. It aims to improve mobility and balance in the body through improved movement of the joints and soft tissue techniques.
Chiropractic is a manual therapy focusing on the spine and nervous system, using adjustments to improve function and relieve pain.
Physiotherapy is a type of rehabilitation that uses exercise, education, and other techniques to help individuals recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions.
All three modalities may overlap in some areas, but they are distinct and unique in their approaches and techniques.
What does my first Osteopathy appointment look like?
On your first visit, your Osteopath would have gone over your detailed health history form that you would have completed online right after booking your appointment, including previous medical complaints and conditions that may be relevant to your current complaint.
They will then carry out a physical assessment which will not only look at the area of the complaint but also look at how the body is functioning more generally.
After this they may ask you to do some simple movements or stretches, to observe your posture and mobility.
After this, your Osteopath will explain fully what they feel is causing your condition/ complaint and discuss a treatment plan that is suitable for you and that they feel is appropriate.
Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or postural issues, our goal is to provide you with long-lasting relief and improved functionality.
What should I bring to my first session?
Everything that the Osteopath would need would have been filled out on the online health history form you completed online.
What if I'm running a few minutes late?
If you are late for your appointment, you will need to reschedule for another day. Symmetry Health is a busy office and it's not fair to the next person coming in if their appointment starts late. Everyone has busy lives, so please arrive a couple mins early before your appointment so we don't have any issues.
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Sarnia Location - Symmetry Health Osteopathy
101 Duff Drive Unit C - FRONT DOOR,Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, ON
N7W 1A7 View Staff & Treatments
Chatham Location - Symmetry Health Osteopathy
226 St Clair St, Symmetry Health OsteopathyChatham, ON
N7L 3J7 View Staff & Treatments