Appointments
Before and during your visit
We begin with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, health and goals. Your osteopath then examines the relevant area and how you move, explains their working diagnosis, and discusses suitable options. With your consent, treatment normally begins during the same 60-minute appointment.
Bring any relevant scan reports, referral letters or a list of medicines if you have them. These are helpful but not required. If you are claiming through insurance, bring your authorisation details.
Comfortable, flexible clothing is ideal. Depending on the examination, you may be asked whether you are comfortable removing an outer layer. You can decline, request a gown or towel, and ask for an adapted examination at any time.
Yes. You are welcome to bring a friend, relative, parent or chaperone. Anyone under 16 must attend with a parent or legal guardian.
Treatment & safety
Understanding your options
Treatment is usually comfortable, although sensitive tissues can sometimes feel tender. We check your comfort throughout and can change or stop a technique at any point. Mild temporary soreness for a day or two can occur after treatment.
Only if we believe it is appropriate, explain it fully and you agree. Manipulation is one option among many. Joint mobilisation, soft-tissue work, exercise or gentle techniques may be more suitable, and you can always decline a technique.
Some recent problems respond within a small number of visits; more persistent or complex conditions may take longer. After your assessment we explain what we expect, agree a review point and reduce or stop treatment if it is not helping.
Cranial osteopathy uses gentle contact and is delivered after a full health history and examination. We explain the limits of evidence and refer to a GP or paediatric professional whenever symptoms need medical assessment. A parent or guardian stays present throughout.
Osteopathic care can be adapted through pregnancy, with comfortable positioning and appropriate techniques. We ask about your pregnancy and liaise with your midwife or medical team if concerns fall outside routine musculoskeletal care.
Practical information
Referrals, insurance and access
No. Osteopaths are primary-contact practitioners, so you can book directly. We may recommend GP review, imaging or another specialist if the assessment suggests this is appropriate.
Many insurers reimburse GOsC-registered osteopaths, but rules differ. Check your policy before booking and ask whether you need pre-authorisation or a specific practitioner. We provide itemised receipts.
We are at 142 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1PQ—about a five-minute walk from Angel Tube Station. Pay-and-display parking is available on nearby side streets, including Barnsbury Street.
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations and missed appointments may be charged at the full appointment fee because the reserved time is difficult to offer to another patient at short notice.
Still unsure?
Ask Emma.
If you are not sure whether to book, which appointment to choose or what information to bring, contact the clinic. We will give you a straightforward answer.
Email the clinic ↗Call 020 7123 4567 ↗Ready when you are
Let’s find a way forward that feels right for you.
Book your first appointment online, or call the clinic if you would like to talk before deciding.