Assessment and treatment
To build a clear picture of your needs, we begin with a thorough assessment, which may include a postural assessment, range-of-motion testing and an evaluation of your movement patterns. This helps us identify areas of restriction, muscular imbalance or dysfunction and develop a treatment approach suited to your symptoms and goals.
Joint and spinal manipulation
Joint manipulation is a hands-on treatment technique used to help improve joint mobility, reduce discomfort and restore normal movement. It involves applying a precise, controlled force to a joint to help address stiffness and restrictions in movement.
When appropriate, joint manipulation can help increase range of motion, improve joint function and make everyday movements feel easier and more comfortable. It may also form part of a wider treatment approach to support posture, movement patterns and overall physical performance.
Dry needling
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that uses fine, sterile, single-use needles to target specific areas of muscle tension, commonly known as trigger points. It may help reduce muscular pain, ease tension, improve movement and address muscle spasms.
By stimulating targeted tissues, dry needling can influence how the nervous system processes pain and help relieve discomfort associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions. It may be used as part of a wider treatment plan for issues such as muscle tightness, headaches and some types of nerve-related pain, where appropriate.
Dry needling is always considered on an individual basis, following an assessment to ensure it is suitable for you. It may be combined with other hands-on treatments and tailored exercises to support recovery, improve mobility and help you return to your usual activities.
Kinesiology taping
We use Rock tape and this can be used alongside other treatments to support recovery from a wide range of injuries and help manage swelling, including lymphoedema.
Applied strategically to the skin, this flexible tape can help support circulation, reduce discomfort and manage swelling. It can also provide support to muscles and joints without restricting your natural movement, making it useful for everyday activities, exercise and sport.
Manual lymphatic drainage massage
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle, specialised massage technique designed to encourage the movement of lymphatic fluid, helping to reduce swelling and fluid build-up in the body. It can be particularly beneficial for people living with lymphoedema, a long-term condition that causes swelling due to a build-up of lymphatic fluid.
Using light, rhythmic movements, this treatment aims to support lymphatic flow, ease feelings of heaviness and tightness, and improve comfort and mobility in affected areas.
Need to know more
Assessment and treatment FAQs
If you can't find the answers below, please don't hesitate to get in touch
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment will begin with a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and any concerns you may have. Your practitioner will then carry out assessment to help identify the cause of your symptoms and understand how best to support you. From there we will together a treatment plan tailored to your needs and treatment can start right away if you are happy.
What should I wear to my appointment?
We recommend wearing comfortable, loose fitting clothing that allows you to move easily. For certain assessments, particularly posture, movement and spinal assessments, you may be asked to stand in your underwear. This allows the practitioner to clearly see your posture, alignment and movement patterns to help carry out an accurate assessment. Your privacy, comfort and dignity will always be respected, and appropriate covering will be provided where needed.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
If you have any relevant medical reports, scan results or previous treatment information, these can be useful. Otherwise, there’s nothing specific you need to bring – just yourself!
Will treatment be painful?
Some assessments and treatments may cause temporary discomfort, particularly when working with sensitive or injured areas. We will always work within your comfort levels, and you can let us know at any time if something feels uncomfortable.
Will I receive exercises to do at home?
You may be recommend exercises or stretches to complete between appointments. These will be tailored to your individual needs and goals, helping to support your recovery, improve strength and mobility, and maintain progress between sessions.
Can I have a treatment if I'm pregnant?
Absolutely! Depending on your individual circumstances and stage of pregnancy the treatment will be tailored to suit you. Please let us know before booking so we can discuss your needs.
Is it normal to feel sore after treatment?
It’s not unusual to experience some temporary tenderness or muscle soreness following your treatment, particularly if we’ve been working on areas of tension or stiffness. This should generally settle within a short period.
How soon will I notice results?
Everyone responds differently to treatment. Some people notice improvements after their first appointment, while others may require several sessions to achieve their desired results. Your progress will be monitored throughout, and we’ll adapt your treatment plan as needed to help you work towards your goals.