Initial Assessment
This is our first meeting when you can tell me about your pain and problems, we have a look (the examination) and from there I can devise a treatment programme. In the case where there has been no diagnosis or we require more information, we can arrange a referral for further investigations–MRI scam, xray etc–or to a consultant for an opinion. This is a great opportunity for you to tell your story in a ‘thinking environment’ and for me to understand your experience. It is as much about you as the condition, so I am very interested in your thoughts and beliefs about the pain as well as what you are interested in!
Bodychart - fill in your pain
Outcome Measures
These forms provide us with further information about your pain and guide certain aspects of where we need to target the treatment. Click the link to download and complete.
Physical examination
This part of the assessment allows us to look at the way that you move, highlighting any restrictions or altered movement patterns, test structural integrity (e.g./ ligaments), test sensation and strength, body perception, joint position sense (proprioception) and other aspects of sensorimotor function. Observing the tissues provides a great deal of information about local health and the involvement of the nervous and other bodily systems. Feeling (palpating) the quality of the skin, muscles, joint mobility and nerve mobility adds further information to determine the nature of the problem and how the body is responding.
The synthesis of the information from the assessment provides a guide for deciding upon a bespoke treatment programme.
Aims of the assessment process
- Diagnose the condition
- Identify the type of pain
- Highlight influencing factors upon the pain such as stress, fatigue and poor health
Please wear comfortable clothing for assessment and treatment sessions that allow for you to be examined and to exercise when appropriate.
