Want to know more about Davies Osteopaths?
Check out our most frequently asked questions below
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing problems affecting the muscles, joints, ligaments, and spine. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques alongside advice on exercise, posture, and lifestyle to help improve movement, reduce pain, and support your body’s natural ability to recover. All of our osteopaths at Davies osteopaths are qualified in history taking all the way to diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation.
What's the difference between an Osteopath, physio and chiropractor
This is a question we get asked a lot at Davies Osteopaths. Generally Osteopaths, physiotherapists, and chiropractors are all healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, joint problems, and sports injuries. While there is some overlap in the conditions they treat, each profession has a slightly different approach.
Osteopaths take a whole-body approach, considering how the muscles, joints, nerves, and surrounding tissues work together. Treatment may include joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, stretching, gentle manipulation, and personalised advice on exercise, posture, and lifestyle to support long-term recovery.
Physiotherapists often focus on restoring movement and function following injury, surgery, or illness. Treatment commonly involves rehabilitation exercises, strength and mobility programmes, education, and manual therapy where appropriate.
Chiropractors primarily focus on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the spine and nervous system. Treatment often includes spinal manipulation.
All three professions are trained to assess musculoskeletal conditions and use evidence-informed practice. The most suitable practitioner depends on your symptoms, goals, and personal preferences.
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy is right for you, we’re happy to discuss your concerns before you book. If we believe another healthcare professional would be better suited to your needs, we’ll always advise you accordingly.
Do I need a referral?
No, osteopathy is private health care so you are able to book in with one of our highly qualified osteopaths without any referral. You don't even need to have seen your doctor beforehand, however we work along side local GP clinics in Crewe, Nantwich, Alsager and Stockport to offer you the best treatment.
Does it matter which Osteopath I book in with?
All of our osteopaths at Davies Osteopaths are trained to a high standard, undertaking a minimum of 4 years training. However all of our osteopaths have slightly different specialities, so if you'd like something specific please read their bios and 'about me' information. Each osteopath is very capable of treating a range of aches, pains and injuries but some people require more specialism ie babies, children and cranial patients.
I'm nervous! What happens at my first appointment?
It's very common to be nervous at your first apoointment and our osteopaths are aware of this. You'll be greeted at the door by one of our friendly receptionist and you may be required to fill out a form (if you haven't done via email). You'll then be introduced to your osteopath, who will then take a thorough case history and chat to your about the problem. Afterwards your osteopath will do an examination, give you a diagnosis and personal treatment plan and then get started on making you feel better. Sometimes you're given homework and exercises to be completed at home, if appropriate.
What should I wear?
Most osteopaths will ask to see the area we are working on, often people feel most comfortable wearing shorts (treatment on lower body), a vest top (treatment on neck and shoulders) or something loose fitting that you can roll up. Sometimes our osteopaths may ask if you're comfortable removing certain clothing. Your comfort, dignity, and privacy will always be respected. At Davies Osteopaths we have both male and female practitioners if you're more comfortable with a particular gender.
Do Osteopaths just treat back pain?
No, thats the biggest misconception about osteopathy. We are known for treating back problems as they are so common in the uk. But we are also adept at treating a range of aches and pains from neck problems, headaches, sports injuries, sprained ankles, pre and post operative rehab and many many more. Many of our osteopaths across our Crewe, Nantwich, Alsager and Stockport clinics have different specialties they treat. Read our bio's to see who would work best for you.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of appointments varies depending on your condition, how long you’ve had your symptoms, your general health, and your goals. Some people notice improvement after one or two sessions, while others with more persistent or complex problems may benefit from a longer course of treatment. Your osteopath will discuss this with you after your assessment. Our aim at Davies Osteopaths is to see you as fewer times as possible, whilst getting you back to the things you love.
Is Osteopathic treatment safe during pregnancy?
Yes, osteopathic treatment can help with many aches and pains during pregnancy, from pelvic pain to sciatica we tailor every treatment to you and your baby.
Is Osteopathy safe?
Yes, osteopathic treatment is very safe. Our osteopaths have all studied for a minimum of 4 years and are extensively trained in a multitude of issues. They complete a thorough medical history to make sure you're safe to treat and if in any doubt that treatment isn’t suitable, we’ll explain why and help guide you towards the most appropriate care.
Do you accept private health insurance? (BUPA, AXA, Simply health etc)
Yes, some of our osteopaths are covered under privare health insurance but we recommend calling the clinic to discuss this over the phone, as it depends on your policy.
What conditions can an Osteopath help with?
Osteopaths commonly treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, joint pain, muscle strains, sports injuries, sciatica, headaches related to the neck, and postural aches and pains. At Davies Osteopaths every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs following a thorough assessment.
Will Osteopathic treatment hurt?
Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and well tolerated. Some techniques may cause mild discomfort, particularly if the affected area is already painful or inflamed. You may experience slight soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to how you might feel after exercise, but this usually settles quickly. Your osteopath will advice you if soreness is to be expected during or after your treatment and we will always discuss different options of treatments and techniques.
Can I do anything to help between appointments?
Absolutely. Recovery is often improved by staying active, performing any recommended exercises, and following the advice given during your appointment. Small changes to posture, movement habits, workstation setup, or daily activities can make a significant difference and help reduce the likelihood of your symptoms returning.
