Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are a type of skin infection on the bottom of your feet, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The infection causes rough bumps to form which may be uncomfortable and painful.
Normal standing and walking tends to force them into the skin, and the pressure causes pain to the affected area. Calluses formed by the body’s attempt to prevent spread of warts can also cause pain when walking. Plantar warts are harmless and may go away, but in many cases, they are too painful to ignore. Plantar warts may also grow together in a cluster, known as mosaic warts.
When the warts do not go away on their own and are painful, it’s time to see our Chiropodist. At BeacHealth, we use an incredibly successful treatment application called “Swift”.
Unlike historically ineffective destructive methods of wart removal (freezing, salicylic acid, surgery, laser, etc.) Swift targets the root cause of the wart, the HPV virus. Microwave energy is introduced into the skin, heating cells to between 42°C and 45°C.
This heat initiates an immune cascade which allows the body to detect and attack the HPV virus, eliminating this painful condition from the body.
Treatment protocol includes an average of 3-4 visits with each treatment lasting just 5-10 minutes. There is no need for local anesthetic, site preparation is minimal and there is no need for post-procedural dressings. Patients are typically back on their feet immediately following the procedure and can continue on with their daily life, making this a preferred and efficient treatment.
Visits are spaced four weeks apart to coincide with the body’s immune cycle, with a follow up appointment scheduled at twelve weeks following the final treatment.
Complete resolution depends on the strength of the patient’s immune response so younger people may experience a faster resolution, where the elderly with more recalcitrant warts may sometimes require additional treatment.
SWIFT™ is Health Canada approved. Cost for treatment is based on the use of this advanced technology and the equipment required to administer it.
Our Chiropodist Lada Milos Lee is here to address any of your concerns.
Hip Osteoarthritis
Understanding, Coping, and Thriving
Osteoarthritis is not fun. This month we’re focusing on osteoarthritis of the hip in depth. If that’s not related to your aches and pains, we’re still here to help.
What is Hip Osteoarthritis?
First things first, let’s understand what hip osteoarthritis is. Imagine your hip joint as a well-oiled machine with smooth cartilage cushioning the bones. Hip osteoarthritis happens when that cartilage wears down over time, causing the joint to start reacting. It’s like your once-silky-smooth ride turned into a bumpy roller coaster.
Why Does It Happen?
Well, it’s mostly due to the natural aging process – as we get older, our joints endure wear and tear. But it’s not just age; genetics, injuries, and strain (through lack of movement, obesity or grinding) can also play a role. When the cartilage deteriorates, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Now, let’s get into the good stuff – how to deal with hip osteoarthritis and preserve, and even regain, mobility.
Lifestyle Changes for Hip Osteoarthritis:
Mindful Movement: One of the best things you can do is to keep moving. It might sound counterintuitive, but gentle, low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and Tai Chi can work wonders. They help to strengthen the muscles around your hip, providing extra support and reducing the stress on the joint.
Watch Your Weight: Your hip joints must carry the load, quite literally. Excess weight puts extra pressure on them, which can accelerate the cartilage breakdown. Shedding those extra pounds through a balanced diet and exercise can make a world of difference. That’s easier said than done for most of us we know, but you’re not alone! Reach out for help if you need it.
Ergonomics: Pay attention to your daily activities. Are you sitting or standing for prolonged periods? Try to maintain good posture and consider using assistive devices like a fit-ball for a chair, a stand-up desk, or a cane or a walker – whatever is right for you. These small changes can reduce strain on your hips.
Footwear Matters: Believe it or not, your choice of shoes can impact your hip health. Choose supportive, cushioned shoes that provide stability. This can alleviate some of the pressure on your hip joints when you’re on your feet.
Exercise for Hip Health: We’ve already touched on the importance of exercise, but let’s break it down further. When dealing with hip osteoarthritis, there are three main types of exercise to consider:
- Strengthening Exercises: These focus on building up the muscles around your hip joint. Think leg lifts, squats, and resistance band exercises. Strong muscles provide better support to your hip, making it less likely to ache.
- Flexibility and Range of Motion Exercises: These aim to improve your hip’s mobility. Simple stretches can do wonders, like the butterfly stretch or knee-to-chest stretches. These keep your joints limber and reduce stiffness.
- Aerobic Exercise: Activities like swimming or cycling are fantastic for cardiovascular health and joint flexibility. They’re low-impact, making them easier on your hips while helping you to stay fit.
Nutrition for Hip Health:
Your diet plays a significant role in managing hip osteoarthritis. Here’s what you should consider:
- Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts. These have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help with pain and discomfort.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Strong bones are essential, so make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can be your best friends here.
- Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for overall health, including joint lubrication. Make sure you’re drinking enough throughout the day.
Osteopathic Care:
Now, let’s talk about how an Osteopath can assist you on your journey to hip health. We are healthcare professionals who focus on the musculoskeletal system, which includes your bones, muscles, and joints.
Manual Therapy: Osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension around the hip. This can provide relief from pain and enhance your overall mobility.
Personalized Treatment: Every person is unique, and so is their experience with hip osteoarthritis. We will tailor treatments to your specific needs, ensuring a personalized approach to managing your condition.
So, hip osteoarthritis might throw a few bumps in your path, but with the right approach, you can regain control of your life. Remember, it’s about taking small, manageable steps, staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, and seeking the professional care of one of our Osteopaths when needed. By making these changes, you can keep those hips moving
Call us anytime to make an appointment at and we can help with whatever body issue bothers you – not just hip osteoarthritis
Stress Fractures – How a Chiropodist can help
Your feet have to bear the weight of your entire body, so that puts more pressure on them as they impact on the ground. That means your feet and ankles are more likely to experience:
- bone pain at the top of the foot
- fractures from a small injury, or even just from walking!
In fact, the bones can become so brittle that if you see our Chiropodist for pain, redness, and swelling on your feet, she may detect a fracture and also determine if you might have osteoporosis. That’s right, some people find out they have osteoporosis because of a foot fracture!
There are a number of factors that can contribute to stress factors:
Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men, especially after Menopause. Since estrogen helps prevent bones from getting weaker by slowing the natural breakdown of bone, its reduction during menopause significantly speeds up bone loss.
Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures.
Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures.
As people age, we experience depleted circulation, dry skin, rough, brittle nails, and bone density loss. This can affect your foot health if steps are not taken to treat them. Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle, with less pain and increased circulation.
How a Chiropodist can help:
A full biomechanical analysis will be performed to see how your gait, muscles and tendons around the fracture are affected.
Custom made foot Orthotics may be recommended if muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints are not in an optimal functional position which can aggravate pain and discomfort. It is also important to reduce further strain on the fractured area. Our custom orthotics can be made from different materials to accommodate your needs, such as semi flexible, semi-rigid, rigid or additional cushioning and make a significant difference on your recovery and future prevention.
Inflammation and the connection to your immune system
Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection, a crucial part of the healing process. However, when this process becomes chronic, it can lead to a range of health issues, from autoimmune disorders to cardiovascular problems. Understanding the triggers and managing inflammation is key to maintaining optimal health.
It’s crucial to recognize the intimate relationship between inflammation and the immune system. Inflammation is, in essence, a manifestation of the immune system’s intricate dance to protect and heal. When a threat is detected, immune cells release signalling molecules that trigger inflammation, summoning reinforcements to the affected area. A miscommunication or imbalance in this process can lead to chronic inflammation, impacting the immune system’s efficiency. Conversely, a compromised immune system may struggle to regulate inflammation appropriately. It’s a delicate symbiosis, one that underscores the importance of fostering both a robust immune response and a balanced inflammatory state. Through targeted interventions and holistic practices, we aim to harmonize these elements, ensuring your immune system is a vigilant defender without tipping the scales toward persistent inflammation.
Your immune system is a sophisticated network of cells and proteins designed to defend your body against harmful invaders. Nourishing your immune system with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep lays the foundation for robust immunity. Natural remedies, such as echinacea and elderberry, can provide additional support without compromising your body’s delicate equilibrium.
How to decrease inflammation:
1) Embrace a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids. Minimize processed foods, refined sugars, and excessive red meat consumption.
2) You can incorporate turmeric, ginger, and green tea into your routine. These herbs boast powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can complement your body’s natural healing mechanisms.
3) Stress is a known trigger for inflammation as well. Explore mindfulness practices, yoga, or meditation to manage stress levels effectively.
At our clinic, we prioritize personalized care tailored to your unique needs. If you’re experiencing persistent inflammation or immune system challenges, schedule a consultation to discuss a comprehensive wellness plan with our Naturopathic Doctor Matthew Pace. Together, we can address the root causes and embark on a journey towards lasting health.
Office Worker Elbow
If you’re an office worker and you’ve been dealing with elbow pain, you’re not alone. Many of us spend hours at a desk, typing away on a computer, and sometimes that can lead to discomfort in our elbows. Let’s dive into what might be causing your elbow pain, some basics about elbow anatomy, and most importantly, how we might be able to help. But if you’d rather cut straight to the chase, give us a call and our experts can treat these symptoms.
Elbow Anatomy 101
First things first, let’s understand a bit about your elbow’s anatomy. The elbow is a complex joint formed by the connection of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius, and the ulna (the two bones of the forearm). It’s a joint that allows for both bending (flexion) and straightening (extension) of the arm. Ligaments and tendons, like the ulnar collateral ligament and common extensor tendon, provide stability and enable movement. When any of these structures are affected, it can result in elbow pain.
Causes of Elbow Pain for Office Workers
Elbow pain can be caused by various factors, and for office workers, some common culprits come into play:
Repetitive Strain: Typing on a keyboard and using a mouse for extended periods can strain the tendons and muscles around the elbow joint, leading to conditions like tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis).
Poor Ergonomics: An improperly set up workstation can put stress on your elbows and wrists. If your desk, chair, or keyboard height isn’t right, it can lead to awkward arm positioning and increased strain.
Overuse: Working long hours without breaks or frequently performing tasks that involve gripping and lifting can lead to overuse injuries, contributing to elbow pain.
Nerve Compression: Prolonged periods of bending the elbows can compress the ulnar nerve, leading to cubital tunnel syndrome, which can cause pain and tingling in the forearm and hand.
Stress and Tension: Stress can cause muscle tension, which may exacerbate existing elbow pain or trigger discomfort in the first place.
What can we do to help?
Our Osteopaths will be able to help you find relief from your elbow pain. Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the body’s musculoskeletal system and aims to improve overall health and well-being. Here’s how:
Assessment and Diagnosis: We will start by thoroughly assessing your condition. We’ll ask you about your symptoms, examine your elbow (and other parts of the upper limb and spine), and possibly perform tests to pinpoint the source of your pain. This diagnostic process helps tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
Manual Techniques: Osteopaths use a variety of manual techniques to treat musculoskeletal issues. For elbow pain, they may use techniques like soft tissue manipulation, myofascial release, or joint mobilization to alleviate tension, improve circulation, and promote healing.
Ergonomic Advice: Osteopaths often provide advice on ergonomics. We can help you set up your workstation correctly to reduce strain on your elbows and prevent future issues. Even small changes can make a big difference – not surprising when you think about how many hours a day you probably spend stuck at your desk!
Exercise and Rehabilitation: We may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and shoulder joint (interesting point – elbow pain is often predisposed by an issue in the neck and shoulder!). These exercises can improve stability and support your recovery.
Preventive Care: Osteopaths don’t just focus on treating the current issue; we also emphasize preventive care. We’ll work with you to develop strategies to reduce the risk of future elbow problems.
Remember that each person’s experience with elbow pain is unique, so we will tailor our approach to your individual needs. The goal is not just to provide relief but to promote long-term healing and well-being.
Can Osteopathy help elbow pain?
In conclusion, if you’re an office worker dealing with elbow pain, don’t suffer in silence. Call us for an appointment instead and let’s work to get you feeling better. Your elbows work hard to support your daily tasks, so let’s give them the care and attention they deserve to keep you comfortable and pain-free at work.
We hope you found this information helpful. If you’re interested in learning more about your musculoskeletal system, you can follow us on Facebook at Beachealth or Instagram at Beachintegrated.
All About Osteoporosis
Did you know that World Osteoporosis Day is marked on the 20th of October? So we’ve decided to make it our focus this month. World Osteoporosis Day, after all, is about education and awareness. So, what is osteoporosis and can you do to prevent it? How do you manage it? And how can the Osteopaths help?
What Is It?
Osteoporosis is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it develops gradually and doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs. Essentially, it’s a condition that weakens your bones, making them more fragile and prone to fractures. Our bones are living tissues, constantly being broken down and rebuilt. But with osteoporosis, the balance tips, and the creation of new bone doesn’t keep up with the removal of old bone, leading to a decrease in bone density.
Prevention is Key
Preventing osteoporosis is more effective than trying to treat it once it’s developed. Here are some key steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Nutrition: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for strong bones. Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, and supplements can help you meet your calcium and vitamin D needs (and sunshine for Vitamin D of course!).
- Exercise: Regular weight-bearing exercises like walking, dancing, and resistance training can strengthen your bones. They help stimulate bone growth and reduce the risk of bone loss. How? Exercise stimulates mechanical loading on the bones, which triggers cells to build and strengthen bone tissue. Additionally, physical activity helps maintain calcium balance in the body (by regulating hormones like parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin) and promotes the release of growth factors, contributing to improved bone density and reduced risk of fractures.
- Avoid Smoking and Excess Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken bones. Why? Smoking impairs bone cell function and inhibits collagen production, leading to decreased bone density and strength. Additionally, smoking increases oxidative stress and inflammation, disrupting the balance of bone re-modelling and ultimately increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. While alcohol interferes with calcium absorption in the intestines. Chronic alcohol consumption interferes with hormone production, resulting, among other things in less estrogen being produced. So, quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can contribute to better bone health.
Managing Osteoporosis with Osteopathy
Now, let’s discuss how the Osteopaths might be able to assist in managing osteoporosis. It’s important to note that there’s no miraculous cure. But it is manageable. We can offer advice to help guide you to strengthen your bones, and work on overall alignment and balance making falls and fractures less likely. We may also be able to help with managing your pain. It’s a complex condition and you want a great team supporting you. We want to part of your team. Read on to find out how…
- Assessment: As always, we start with a thorough assessment. We can assess your posture, mobility, and musculoskeletal issues. We’ll pay particular attention to issues related to osteoporosis, but also to other signs that might exacerbate the pain and dangers associated with the condition.
- Pain Management: Through gentle manipulations and massage we may be able to help you manage pain associated with osteoporosis. These techniques aim to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and enhance your overall comfort.
- Exercise Guidance: It’s never too late to start exercising. After a thorough assessment we’ll be able to recommend safe and appropriate exercises to strengthen your muscles (and therefore your bones) and improve balance. This can be crucial in reducing the risk of falls and fractures, which are common concerns for individuals with osteoporosis.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Our Osteopath may offer advice on lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of fractures. This may include tips on fall prevention and ergonomic adjustments to your daily activities.
- Collaboration: We will work closely with our other healthcare professionals that you may see, such as our Physiotherapists for clinical Pilates to strengthen your body, our Naturopathic Doctor for nutrition advice, or our Chiropodist for feet support and body alignment, providing a holistic approach to managing osteoporosis. Get a team to support you. Teamwork makes all the difference!
Osteoporosis is a condition that requires proactive prevention and comprehensive management. Our team at BeacHealth can play a valuable role in helping individuals with osteoporosis to enhance their bone health, reduce pain, and improve their overall well-being. If you’re concerned about osteoporosis or already have it, we look forward to working with you to help you manage the condition and get the most out of life despite of it. And remember, a healthy lifestyle and proactive care can go a long way in managing osteoporosis and maintaining a strong, resilient skeleton.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can be painful, making it hard to stand or walk and it can even become infected. Signs of an ingrown toenail are pain, redness, warm to the touch and can feel hard and swollen.
This foot condition develops when the corner of the toenail grows down into the skin and usually affects the big toe. Ingrown toenails often happen when people cut their toenails too short, or too rounded at the corner. The toenail curves with the shape of the toe and can grow into your skin. Other causes can be from improperly fitting shoes, tearing the corner of the nail, toe trauma (such as stubbing your toe) and congenital (your foot shape) when the nail is larger comparatively with your toe causing the surrounding tissue of the nail border to grow around the nail.
Ingrown toenails are common and anyone can get one, but treatment is fairly straightforward. Our Chiropodist can remove it and take steps to prevent it from happening again.
If you have an ingrown or infected toenail, see our Chiropodist Lada Milos Lee for complete care!
All About Quadricep Strains
This month we find ourselves fascinated by quadricep strains and hope to share a little information and advice with you. If that interests you, read on. But if another injury or ache or pain is your priority right now, please give us a call. We are here to help with hamstring strains, bicep strains, triceps strains, calf strains… and even aches and pains that have nothing to do with strains!
So, you’ve strained one of your quadriceps… Firstly, ouch – we know that can be a real pain. But we want to reassure you that with the right knowledge and some help from an Osteopath, you’ll be back on your feet in no time.
What Is It Exactly?
First things first, let’s understand the anatomy. The quadriceps muscle group is a powerhouse located at the front of your thigh. It’s responsible for extending your knee and helping you to kick, jump, and run. Maybe you don’t run like an Olympian, but your body’s movement potential and power is amazing when you start to really consider its mechanics! The quadriceps are so named because there are four of them. You’ve got the Rectus Femoris running down the centre of your thigh, the Vastus Lateralis on the outer side of your thigh, the Vastus Medialis on the inner side of the thigh and the Vastus Intermedius deep between the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis. Sometimes, these muscles can get overstretched or overloaded, leading to those unwelcome strains.
How Bad is It your quadricep strain?
There are three grades of quadriceps muscle strain, and each one brings its own set of challenges:
Grade 1 – The Mild One:
A Grade 1 strain is the least severe of the bunch. It happens when only a small number of muscle fibers get torn. You might feel some mild discomfort and tenderness in the affected area, but it won’t stop you from going about your daily activities. It can be tempting to ignore it and just get on with things, but this might be detrimental to your healing in the long-term. So challenge yourself to take proper care of this injury.
Grade 2 – The Moderate Trouble-Maker:
A Grade 2 strain is a bit more intense. This time, a more significant number of muscle fibers get torn. Ouch! You’ll likely experience pain, swelling, and maybe even some bruising around the thigh. Moving your leg could be tricky, and walking might not be as smooth as it used to be. The challenge here is to care for your leg, but not fall into a poor movement pattern while you work around the injury. This can create more problems throughout the rest of your body – which is the last thing you need!
Grade 3 – The Severe One (Or the Great Escape):
A Grade 3 strain is the big kahuna, and it’s no joke. In this scenario, the muscle suffers a complete rupture. Yep, you heard that right – it tears all the way through! The pain will be intense, and you may even notice a divot or dent in your thigh where the muscle used to be. This one might take you off your feet for a while, and you’ll need some serious TLC to get back on track.
How Did This Happen?
So, how does all this quad strain mayhem happen? Well, it can come about in a variety of ways:
- Overexertion: Pushing yourself too hard during exercise or physical activities, like sprinting or weightlifting, can put a strain on those quads.
- Sudden Movements: Abrupt changes in direction, especially when running or playing sports, can cause the muscle fibers to go “uh-oh!” and decide to take a break.
- Weak Muscles: If your quadriceps muscles are weak or imbalanced compared to other leg muscles, they might not handle the workload and could get strained.
- Lack of Warm-up: Skipping the warm-up routine before getting into the action can leave your muscles unprepared and vulnerable to injury.
- Fatigue: Tired muscles are more prone to strains, so it’s essential to listen to your body and not push it beyond its limits.
Bad luck plays into these things too of course. But it’s a good reminder that warming up, listening to your body, using proper form and cooling down properly are essential.
How Can My Osteopath Help?
Alright, now that we’ve got the lowdown on quadriceps muscle strains and how they happen, let’s talk about what an osteopath can do to lend a helping hand during the healing process.
Osteopaths are like the masters of the musculoskeletal system. They understand how the body works and can work their magic to help you recover from that quad strain:
- Assessment and Diagnosis:
First things first, our Osteopath will give you a thorough evaluation. They’ll ask about your symptoms and examine the affected area. This will help them determine the grade of your strain and tailor a treatment plan just for you. - Manual Therapy:
Osteopaths are experts in manual therapy techniques, and they’ll use their hands to gently manipulate and mobilize the affected area. This can improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and speed up the healing process. - Rehabilitation Plan:
As you move through the recovery stages, our Osteopath will develop a tailored rehabilitation plan for you. This might include specific exercises and activities to progressively challenge your quads and get them back in top-notch shape. - Prevention Tips:
To avoid future quad strains, our Osteopath will share some valuable prevention tips. These could include additions to your warm-up routine, muscle-strengthening exercises, guidance on how to pace yourself during physical activities and other lifestyle tips like gait adjustment and postural advice.
Remember, every quad strain is unique, and the healing process can vary from person to person. So, don’t rush it! Listen to your body, follow your Osteopath’s advice, and give those quads the TLC they deserve.
In no time, you’ll be back on your feet, enjoying life to the fullest, and saying goodbye to those quad strain blues. So, take care, be patient, and let us guide you to a full and speedy recovery!
Laser Season is Here!
As the vibrant hues of fall approach, so does the much-anticipated Laser Season! It’s the perfect time to explore advanced skincare techniques and embrace the wisdom of naturopathic doctors for a holistic approach to skin care.
Discover the world of laser treatments! From laser hair removal to skin resurfacing, we offer various treatments options that can help treat: wrinkles, scars, uneven texture/pigmentation, sun/brown spots, rosacea, cellulite, skin tightening, unwanted hair
We have also launched new treatment options: Spa facials and micro-needling.
Get ready to be enlightened by our naturopathic doctor who specializes in skin health. Learn about the importance of a balanced diet, herbal remedies, and natural skincare routines. Explore how to integrate these practices with laser treatments for the best results.
Discover the synergy between mindfulness and skincare. Learn techniques to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost your overall well-being. Our experts explain how a serene mind contributes to glowing skin during Laser Season.
Explore a selection of naturopath-approved skincare brands that align with holistic principles. From organic ingredients to eco-friendly packaging, these products are designed to nurture your skin and the planet.
Get ready to glow this Laser Season with insights from nature-inspired skincare routines and laser treatments.
**Exclusive Laser Season Offers**
50% off the first treatment to new and returning clients
Free Eaune skincare sample bag with first treatment
Have a question? Send it our way, or book a complimentary initial consultation!
*Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with qualified professionals before starting any new skincare or treatment regimen.*
Your First Osteopathy Appointment
So, you’ve got your first appointment with an osteopath coming up and you’re filled with anticipation and curiosity. Let’s walk you through what to expect before, during, and after your first visit here at BeacHealth.
Before the Appointment:
Before you head to your Osteopath’s clinic, take a moment to gather some essential information. Make sure you have your medical history handy, including any past injuries or conditions you’ve dealt with. Jot down any current symptoms or discomfort you’re experiencing, so you don’t forget to mention anything during your visit.
During this time, you might also want to write down any questions or concerns you have about your health. Your Osteopath is there to help you, so don’t be shy about asking anything that’s on your mind.
It’s best to wear comfortable clothes to the appointment. You’ll probably be asked to move around a bit so we can see how your muscles are working. Restrictive, uncomfortable clothes just get in the way.
During the Appointment:
Expect a warm and friendly atmosphere. Osteopathy is a holistic discipline – we treat the whole person not a muscle in isolation – so we’ll work to put you at ease.
Your Osteopath will start by having a chat with you about your medical history and any specific issues you’re facing. They’ll listen attentively and ask questions to get a comprehensive picture of your health.
Next comes the physical examination. Don’t worry; it won’t be anything invasive or uncomfortable. Your Osteopath will gently assess your body’s mobility, posture, and movement. They might ask you to perform certain movements to better understand how your muscles and joints are doing.
Based on their assessment, your Osteopath will create a personalized treatment plan just for you. They’ll explain their findings and what they believe could be causing your discomfort. Remember, your Osteopath is here to work with you and find the best approach for your unique needs.
If any hands-on treatment is necessary, your Osteopath will explain each step before proceeding. Manual therapy techniques are common in osteopathy, and your Osteopath might use gentle manipulations, stretches, or other techniques to address your specific concerns. Rest assured that it’s non-invasive. If anything hurts let your Osteopath know. Communication is key.
After the Appointment:
Congratulations, you’ve completed your first visit with an Osteopath! Now, let’s talk about what comes next.
After your session, you might experience some immediate relief from your symptoms (and that is just the most amazing feeling for you and for us!). However, keep in mind that healing takes time, and your body might need a bit of adjustment. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t feel 100% right away; gradual progress is normal. It’s even possible that the aches and pains might feel even more pronounced for a day or two while the healing happens.
Your Osteopath might provide you with some helpful advice on how to manage your symptoms at home. This could include exercises, stretches, or lifestyle modifications that will support your recovery. Follow their recommendations diligently to maximize the benefits of your treatment. We cannot stress the importance of this enough. While we love repeat business, we prefer that our patients keep coming back because we’re just that good – not because they keep hurting themselves in the same old ways over and over again!
In some cases, your Osteopath might recommend follow-up appointments to continue monitoring your progress and adjusting the treatment plan as needed. It all depends on the injury/condition/ache – it’s severity and causes. The important thing to know is that we’re here for you to provide ongoing support if it’s needed for long-term healing and well-being.
Remember, open communication with your Osteopath is key. If you have any questions or concerns after your first visit or throughout your treatment journey, don’t hesitate to reach out. They are here to guide you and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
Before, during, and after your first visit with an Osteopath, you can expect a caring and personalized experience. The team at BeacHealth will take the time to listen to your concerns, conduct a thorough examination, and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. With gentle hands-on techniques and expert guidance, they’ll help you on your journey to improved health and well-being.
So, take a deep breath and call us to book your first appointment and embark on a path of healing and vitality. You’ve got this! We hope you found this informative. If you’re curious about osteopathy, human movement or human anatomy check out other blogs on our web site at www.beachealth.com, or follow us on Instagram at beachintegrated. We should warn you that the occasional osteopathy joke may make its way to our posts! We look forward to seeing you at the clinic.