Consultations.

Understanding how the changes work is extremely important so, asking questions when there is the slightest doubt as to what is being explained is essential.

Be relaxed and enjoying the whole experience of changing and controlling the way our bodies move is also important.

The focus is working with our own bodies which is something a lot of people do not do and for many being nervous when doing something new for the first time is quite normal. Therefore rest assured that any changes made will be at the rate an individual can cope with easily.

Understanding the points being discussed  is crucial to achieving a quick resolution of the of the presenting condition. A Chinese proverb sums up what is required very neatly; I hear and forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand.

What happens at a consultation?

Apart from the first consultation when everything  is explained in broad generalised terms, each consultation consists of three parts.

First - to check what has happened since the previous treatment and then to assess the legs and feet.

Second - assess the changes in the orthotics and make appropriate changes.

Third - modify posture and adjust gait pattern (change the way a patient walks)

Welcome, the emphasis is on having fun, the consultation is done on an informal basis as when people are relaxed they respond in a much more natural manner. If they are uptight then it is much harder to ascertain their normal movement patterns.

Next we find out what has happened since the last treatment. This includes how well the patient got on with their orthotic and whether their has been any noticable improvement as well as any problems that may have arisen.

 
  Then we assess the lower limbs for joint mobility, stability and structural alignment. Then changes to the ortotic are assessed. All of these points are fully explained and discussed with the patient.

  What then needs to happen is fully explained and any necessary exercises that need to be done are explained. Then any re-alignment of bones or joints takes place.  

  The orthotic is then modified as required and fitted into the patient's shoe.  

 

Once the orthotic has been fitted it is assessed again for comfort and its effect on standing and movement. The gait and posture is then looked at in some detail and if necessary further adjustments are made.

The priorities for the course of treatment are set and the time for the next appointment is set. However, advice can always be sought by phone if required.