Frequently asked questions
● What can Osteopaths treat?
Osteopaths treat a wide range of conditions that include back and neck pain, peripheral joint pain, trapped nerves, repetitive strain, headaches, sporting injuries, arthritic pain, and many other conditions. Please contact me if you are uncertain if osteopathy is appropriate for your condition.
● Will treatment be painfull?
Some of the techniques employed by osteopaths may occasionally provoke a mild discomfort during their application, but communication between the patient and osteopath means that this should never be to a degree that would be unpleasant.
Occasionally after visits patients may experience a treatment reaction with a some exaggeration of their symptoms for a brief period, normally no longer than 24 hours. This is most often not the case. Patients are encouraged to contact their osteopath if this causes concern.
● Do I need to consult my GP before visiting an osteopath?
Generally not. Most patients self refer without first consulting their GP. If you have severe health problems and a complex medical history then you may wish to consult your GP to ensure that osteopathic treatment is appropriate.
● Will my medical insurance cover the cost of treament?
In most cases at least some of the cost is reimbursed up to a certain limit. John is recognised by BUPA (Ref 30023310), AVIVA (Ref 600049220), PRU, HSA and most other insurers. Some providers require that you be refered for osteopathic treatment by your GP. If you are in any doubt then first check with your insurance provider. John's associate Joanna Luft is not currently registered to provide osteopathy through insurance.
Note Regarding AXA/PPP Unfortunately as AXA/PPP have imposed a cap of £35 on the amount they will pay for osteopathic visits, with no option for the patient to top-up the difference, I sadly have no option but to discontinue accepting their patients from Nov 2016.
● What happens if I cannot attend an appointment?
There is a policy that the full fee is charged if the patient fails to attend or give less than 24 hours notice of cancellation. When allocated time is wasted it prevents other patients from receiving attention, some of whom may be in considerable pain.
Clearly there are some genuine reasons, beyond forgetfulness and poor timing, why attendance may not be possible, and I would ask that you please communicate this if it is the case. It is not my policy to request the fee under certain circumstances.