Question 1

How do I know which treatment is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you’re unsure whether osteopathy, specialist massage, medical acupuncture or nutritional advice would be most appropriate, you don’t have to make that decision alone. You are welcome to book an initial consultation. We will discuss your symptoms, medical history and goals, and I will explain the available options so we can decide together on an appropriate approach.

Question 2

What is the difference between osteopathy and massage?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy is a regulated healthcare profession involving clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment, particularly of musculoskeletal conditions. An osteopathic appointment may include examination, hands-on treatment, movement advice and exercises. Specialist massage focuses on soft tissues and may help manage muscular tension, discomfort and relaxation. At Marylebone House, specialist massage treatments include Myofascial Release Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage and Buccal Massage. The most suitable option depends on your individual needs.

Question 3

Can I combine different treatments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Depending on your circumstances, we can develop a personalised care plan involving different treatments across separate appointments. Medical acupuncture may also be incorporated into an osteopathy appointment where clinically appropriate and with your consent. Medical acupuncture is not combined with massage treatments.

Question 4

Can I choose my massage treatment on the day?

Accepted Answer

If you’re uncertain which specialist massage approach would suit you, please get in touch before booking. Your appointment will always begin with a discussion of your needs and preferences. Where appropriate, the treatment approach can be adapted, although some specialist techniques require a specific appointment type.

Question 5

How long are the appointments?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy — initial consultation: 60 minutes; follow-up: 30 or 45 minutes Specialist massage — 60 or 90 minutes Medical acupuncture — initial consultation: 60 minutes; follow-up: 45 minutes Nutritional advice — initial consultation: 60 minutes; follow-up: 45 minutes Scar therapy — initial consultation: 60 minutes; follow-up: 45 minutes Posture correction — initial consultation: 90 minutes; follow-up: 60 minutes The appropriate appointment length depends on the treatment and your individual needs.

Question 6

What should I expect during my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your first appointment begins with a discussion of your health history, current concerns and what you hope to achieve. For osteopathy, this will also include a clinical assessment and, where appropriate, physical examination. For massage and medical acupuncture, I will discuss relevant health considerations and explain the proposed treatment. Nutritional advice consultations involve a detailed review of your eating habits, lifestyle, medical history and the information you provide beforehand. There will always be an opportunity to ask questions before proceeding.

Question 7

What should I wear to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

For osteopathy: comfortable underwear that allows appropriate examination is recommended. Your privacy and comfort will always be respected. For massage: you will be asked to undress to your underwear and will be covered with a towel throughout the treatment. Only the area being treated will be uncovered as necessary. For medical acupuncture: depending on the area being treated, you may remain in loose-fitting clothing or be asked to undress to your underwear. A towel will be provided to ensure your privacy and comfort throughout the treatment.

Question 8

Do I need to prepare anything before my appointment?

Accepted Answer

For osteopathy, massage and medical acupuncture, please be ready to discuss your medical history, medications and any relevant investigations or diagnoses. For Nutritional Advice, preparation is essential. Before your first consultation, you will need to submit: A seven-day food diary, including meals, snacks and drinks A list of current medications and supplements Details of existing medical conditions and relevant symptoms Recent blood tests or other relevant medical results, where available Please make sure you can provide this information before booking your initial nutritional consultation.

Question 9

Are online appointments available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only for Nutritional Advice. Nutritional consultations are available either online or in person at Marylebone House. Osteopathy, specialist massage, medical acupuncture and scar therapy are provided in person.

Question 10

Do you offer same-day appointments?

Accepted Answer

Same-day appointments may be available, depending on the schedule. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly if you have a preferred day or time.

Question 11

Can I have treatment if I have an existing medical condition?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes, but it depends on your condition, current symptoms and the treatment being considered. Please provide accurate information about your medical history, medications, recent surgery and any relevant diagnoses. Some treatments may need to be adapted, postponed or avoided. Where appropriate, I may recommend further medical assessment or communication with another healthcare professional.

Question 12

Is osteopathy suitable during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Osteopathy and appropriately adapted pregnancy massage are available from the fourth month of pregnancy (second trimester). Treatment is adapted to your stage of pregnancy, symptoms, medical history and comfort. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or medical concerns, additional advice from your maternity care team may be needed.

Question 13

Do you offer pregnancy and postnatal care?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Women’s health is an important focus of my practice. I offer individualised support for pregnancy-related musculoskeletal discomfort, postnatal recovery and changes associated with different stages of life. Depending on your needs, care may include osteopathy, appropriate massage, nutritional advice or scar therapy following a healed Caesarean section.

Question 14

Can I have treatment after surgery?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the procedure, your recovery and the type of treatment. Scar therapy may be appropriate once the wound has healed sufficiently. Some people may also benefit from carefully selected soft tissue techniques or osteopathic care during recovery. Treatment is not provided directly over unhealed wounds or areas showing signs of infection or complications. Medical clearance may be needed in some circumstances.

Question 15

Is medical acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

Medical acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by an appropriately trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles. Minor bruising, temporary soreness, slight bleeding or light-headedness can occasionally occur. More serious complications are rare but possible. I will review your medical history, explain relevant risks and precautions, and obtain your consent before treatment.

Question 16

Are there circumstances when treatment may not be appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fever, acute infection, certain medical conditions, recent injuries or surgical complications may mean that a treatment should be postponed or modified. Individual treatments, including lymphatic drainage, buccal massage and medical acupuncture, have their own precautions. If you are unsure whether a treatment is suitable, please contact me before booking.

Question 17

What hygiene measures are in place?

Accepted Answer

Treatment surfaces and equipment are cleaned between appointments, and fresh towels are provided where required. For medical acupuncture, sterile single-use needles are used and disposed of safely in approved sharps containers. Professional hygiene and infection-control procedures are followed throughout the practice.

Question 18

How many appointments will I need?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed number that suits everyone. Some concerns may improve after a small number of appointments, while persistent or complex conditions may benefit from ongoing management. Following your assessment, we can discuss a reasonable treatment plan and review whether it is helping. I do not recommend appointments simply for the sake of continuing treatment.

Question 19

How soon should I expect results?

Accepted Answer

Responses to treatment vary. Some people notice a change in comfort or movement relatively quickly, while others may require more time. It is also possible that a particular treatment will not produce the hoped-for improvement. We will review your response and adjust the approach where appropriate.

Question 20

Will I need a follow-up appointment for Nutritional Advice?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Nutritional Advice includes an initial consultation followed by a review appointment. The follow-up allows us to discuss how you have responded to the recommendations, identify any difficulties and adjust where necessary. The timing of your follow-up will be agreed according to your circumstances.

Question 21

Do you offer personalised treatment packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you would benefit from more than one approach, we can discuss a personalised package involving suitable treatments. You can also book individual services without committing to a package. The aim is to choose care that is appropriate for you, rather than follow a standard programme.

Question 22

What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Accepted Answer

Please provide at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancellations or changes made with less than 48 hours’ notice are subject to the full appointment fee. Please review the booking terms when arranging your appointment.

Question 23

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Payment can be made online or by major debit or credit card. Cash payments are also accepted at the clinic.

Question 24

Do you offer gift vouchers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Gift vouchers are available to purchase directly through the Marylebone House Shop. You can explore the available options and purchase your voucher online.

Question 25

Where is Marylebone House located?

Accepted Answer

Marylebone House is located in Marylebone, central London, with convenient public transport connections. You can find the full address, directions, nearby stations and a map on our Contact & Location page.

Question 26

Do you offer home visits?

Accepted Answer

Appointments are provided at Marylebone House, with online consultations available for Nutritional Advice only. Home visits may be arranged by prior agreement, depending on your location, treatment needs and availability. Please contact me directly to discuss your requirements before booking.

Question 27

Will I see the same practitioner at every appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All consultations and treatments are personally provided by Marta Suchanska. This allows for continuity of care and a consistent understanding of your health history, treatment preferences and progress.

Question 28

Can I use private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Some private health insurance policies cover osteopathic treatment, depending on the insurer and the terms of your policy. Coverage for massage, acupuncture and nutritional advice varies and should not be assumed. Please check with your insurer before booking if you intend to claim reimbursement. An invoice can be provided where appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing Your Treatment

Appointments and Preparation

Health and Safety

Treatment Results and Ongoing Care

Bookings, Payments and Practical Information