(3-minute read)
As an experienced osteopath in Henleaze, I am sometimes asked why (and how) patients should treat pain when they are on an NHS surgery waiting list in Bristol.
According to statistics from the end of 2024, there are more than six million people waiting for care in the UK.
This includes those on waiting lists for consultant appointments and various surgeries.
We all know that the NHS is under a huge amount of strain, with growing waiting lists in Bristol and across the country. That equates to a significant number of people suffering in pain.
What's the impact of being on an NHS waiting list?
There are many negative health implications, both physical and mental, for people on the NHS waiting list in Bristol, including:
Patients with ongoing pain
Increased and prolonged suffering
Short-term issues become long-term conditions
People are unable to live life daily
A general feeling of helplessness
Lack of control over own body and illness
Stress from an unknown NHS waiting time
The mental and emotional burden of living with pain while on an NHS waiting list can cause huge ongoing harm. Patients as well as those suffering pain often become anxious and stressed.
A proactive solution can be to treat or alleviate the pain and suffering while waiting for an NHS consultation.
Taking control of what can be managed daily can help patients stay positive.
I do appreciate however, that not everyone can afford a private consultation but for those that can early treatment can really help.
There’s also the added possibility that the problem might be resolved, reducing time spent suffering and unloading the stretched NHS system, allowing those less fortunate to access care sooner.
Can an osteopath help treat my pain?
Treatment from an osteopath while you are on an NHS surgery waiting list in Bristol can benefit patients in a number of ways, such as:
Taking control of the problem
Positive action through treatment
Getting a diagnosis from an osteopath
Treatment helps to reduce pain
Reduction of short-term issues becoming chronic conditions
Enables patients to get on with their daily lives
No waiting time to see an osteopath for treatment
Common surgeries such as hip replacements, knee operations, slipped discs, back operations, and other injuries requiring surgery can’t be resolved through osteopathy. Still, symptomatic relief and improved function through treatment can keep patients going while they wait for their surgery.
A Bristol osteopath may be able to reduce pain for a huge range of musculoskeletal conditions.
My Healthy News section has a significant library of blogs with tips and advice on pain management. Visit here to find out more.
To make a booking for a consultation at my osteopathic clinic in Henleaze, please visit here.