We will always try to accommodate requests to see a particular osteopath or an osteopath of the same gender. However we cannot guarantee that the tutor supervising the student will be of the same gender.

It is fine to bring a friend or family member with you. Unfortunately HSU Clinics London (UCO Clinic) is unable to provide chaperones (although another student may be able to sit in on your treatment in this role, if available).

If you need someone to help you communicate clearly or understand your student osteopath, it is very important that you organise someone to come with you who can fulfil that role. Please note, some of the questions in the initial consultations can be personal in nature. 

As you will be asked to undress to your underwear for examination, it is best to wear underwear that you will be comfortable in. If you would like a gown to wear, please ask your student osteopath. If you are not keen to undress, wearing loose-fitting separates may help with this – for example a roomy top and skirt rather than a dress.

You will be asked to undress to your underwear if you are happy to do so. This allows the student osteopath to examine you and consider the relevance of different parts of the body to your presenting problem. Gowns are available if you would prefer to wear one. If you do not feel comfortable undressing then please let your student osteopath know.

Osteopaths consider biological, psychological and social factors instead of viewing a symptom in isolation.

If the appointment is your first consultation on an issue, the student osteopath will begin by asking you questions to gain a good understanding of your case history. This is followed by a thorough examination, where you will be asked to undress to your underwear if you are happy to do so. If you would prefer, reusable gowns are available for purchase at the reception desk.

You may be asked to perform some movements, and the student osteopath may move different parts of your body to see how they are functioning, or do additional tests. 

Your student osteopath will report to their supervising tutor on their findings, and will then talk to you about what they think is causing the problem. S/he will also talk to you about possible treatment options, possible effects, and may also advise you on exercise, diet or lifestyle changes which could help manage or improve your condition. Where necessary, and normally only with your permission, we may need to write to your GP or other healthcare practitioners if a referral is indicated.

Your first consultation may take up to an hour and a half, and may not always result in treatment. If this is the case (and it is appropriate) then you will be re-booked for a further appointment as soon as possible.

There is no need for a GP referral to the UCO Clinic. In the majority of instances we can treat patients at the UCO Clinic, but occasionally it may be necessary to refer you to your GP for further tests or evaluation before a diagnosis can be made or any treatment is undertaken. 

If you need to cancel your appointment, please call 020 7089 5360 or email us as soon as possible so that we can make the appointment slot available to another patient. Please note that if you have booked into our Associates Clinic and wish to cancel within 24 hours of the appointment time, there will be a cancellation fee amounting to 50% of the appointment fee.