What should I wear?
Osteopathic Treatments: To carry out a thorough medical exam, you may be asked to undress down to your underwear, so please wear something you feel comfortable in.
Sports Massage Treatment: You should wear loose, comfortable clothing. Depending on the area being treated, you may be asked to remove certain items of clothing, and in some cases, you may be in your underwear. Your comfort and dignity will always be respected, and towels will be used for draping to ensure you feel at ease.
Can I Bring a friend or relative?
Yes, if you would feel more comfortable, someone can be present throughout your consultation and treatment for both Osteopathy and Sports Massage. There is also a separate area where they can wait during the treatment if preferred.
Can all ages be treated?
Yes, treatment is available for all ages. However, for both Osteopathy and Sports Massage, anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Does it hurt?
Osteopathic treatments: Some techniques may cause discomfort during treatment. Your osteopath will explain what to expect and encourage you to communicate if you experience pain. You may feel a little stiff or sore after treatment, which is a normal part of the healing process.
Sports Massage: Some deep tissue techniques may cause mild discomfort, particularly if working on areas of tension or injury. Your therapist will always work within your comfort levels and adjust the pressure accordingly. It is common to feel some soreness after treatment, similar to post-exercise muscle ache, but this should ease within a day or two.
Do I need to see my doctor or GP first?
Osteopathic Treatments: You do not need to see your doctor before booking an appointment. However, if you have private medical insurance, you may require a referral from your GP. Please check with your insurer or speak to our osteopath if you are unsure.
For Sports Massage: No GP referral is needed. However, if you have a medical condition, injury, or are unsure whether sports massage is suitable for you, please consult your doctor first or speak with your therapist before booking.
How many treatments will I need?
Osteopathic Treatments: The number of treatments depends on the condition and the individual. Your osteopath will aim to keep appointments to a minimum and will inform you early on whether further treatment is needed or if a referral is recommended.
Sports Massage: The frequency of treatments depends on your needs, whether it’s for injury recovery, performance enhancement, or general maintenance. Some clients benefit from a one-off session, while others may require a series of treatments for best results. Your therapist will discuss this with you and tailor a plan to suit your goals.
Are home visits available?
No, we do not currently offer home visits for Osteopathic or Sports Massage Treatments.
However, for Osteopathic treatments, Rebecca Morton is also available at the Live Long Health and Wellness Clinic at:
Hyntle Barn Clinic
Hill Farm, Silver Hill
Hintlesham, Ipswich
IP8 3NJ
What is Osteopathy and Sports Massage?
Osteopathy is a primary care profession that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, as well as their effects on general health. It is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal itself, and osteopathic care aims to strengthen the musculoskeletal system to aid recovery and prevent future issues.
Sports massage is a hands-on therapy designed to manipulate soft tissues, relieve muscular tension, improve circulation, enhance flexibility, and aid in injury prevention or recovery. It is commonly used by athletes and active individuals but is also beneficial for those with general muscle tension or postural imbalances.
What training do Osteopaths and Sports Massage Therapists have?
Osteopaths complete a four-year full-time degree (BSc(Hons), BOst, BOstMed, or M.Ost), covering anatomy, physiology, pathology, and clinical practice. After graduating, they must undertake at least 30 hours of continuing professional development (CPD) per year to maintain and update their skills.
The Extended Diploma in Sports Massage is an intensive and comprehensive qualification designed to provide in-depth knowledge of the human body, musculoskeletal system, and a range of advanced treatment techniques. The course includes both theoretical and practical components, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of sports massage therapy.
Upon completion, the qualification is formally accredited and awarded by iTEC and VTCT, two of the leading regulatory bodies for vocational training in sports therapy and complementary health.
Can anyone call themselves an Osteopath or Sports Massage Therapist?
The title "Osteopath" is protected by law in the UK, meaning only those registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) can legally practise. Unregistered practice is a criminal offence.
Sports Massage Therapist is not currently regulated by law. This means that, in theory, anyone can call themselves a sports massage therapist, regardless of their level of training or qualifications.
However, to ensure high standards of practice, reputable sports massage therapists typically obtain recognized qualifications, such as an ITEC or VTCT-accredited diploma, and adhere to professional guidelines. Many also register with industry bodies like the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) or the Sports Massage Association (SMA), which require members to meet certain educational and ethical standards.