Your First Visit
What happens at my first appointment?
Your first visit starts with a detailed medical history — we'll discuss your current symptoms, past injuries, lifestyle, and health goals. Neil will then carry out a postural and biomechanical assessment before moving into hands-on treatment, all in the same session. Everything is explained as you go. The appointment ends with aftercare advice and exercises tailored to your needs.
How long does a session take?
All appointments are 45 minutes — both first consultations and follow-up sessions.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No — you can book directly without a GP referral. You are welcome to bring any relevant medical records, scan results, or previous diagnoses, but these are not required to book. Note: some private health insurers require a GP prescription for reimbursement — check your specific plan.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is ideal.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies significantly depending on the condition, severity, and how long it has been present. Many acute conditions resolve in 2–4 sessions. Chronic or complex issues may require more. Neil will give you a realistic assessment after your first appointment and will never recommend unnecessary treatment.
Insurance & Reimbursement
Can I get reimbursement through my Belgian mutuelle?
Yes. As a registered osteopath with the UPOB-BVBO and GNRPO, Neil issues a proper attestation after every session which you can submit to your Belgian mutuelle (health insurance fund) for partial reimbursement. Most Belgian mutuelles allow up to 5 osteopathy sessions per year. The exact amount reimbursed varies by mutuelle — check your specific plan for details.
Do I need a GP prescription for reimbursement?
It depends on your insurer. Belgian mutuelles generally do not require a GP prescription — you can book directly and claim reimbursement afterwards with the attestation Neil provides. Some private health insurers and certain institutional schemes do require a GP prescription before your appointment. If in doubt, check with your insurer in advance. Neil provides a full attestation after every session for your reimbursement submission.
Do you accept private international insurance?
Neil does not bill insurance companies directly, but provides detailed attestations and receipts which most private international health insurers will accept for reimbursement. Check with your insurer whether osteopathy is covered under your plan and what documentation they require.
What is the cancellation policy?
There are no cancellation fees at Brussels Osteopath. If you need to cancel or reschedule, simply do so via your booking confirmation email or by contacting the clinic directly. We'd appreciate as much notice as possible so the slot can be offered to another patient.
About Osteopathy
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a hands-on approach to healthcare that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical problems in the body's structure — muscles, joints, ligaments, and connective tissue. Osteopaths use a range of manual techniques including soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, spinal manipulation, and cranio-sacral therapy to improve function, reduce pain, and support the body's natural healing capacity.
Is osteopathy evidence-based?
Yes. Osteopathy is a regulated healthcare profession with a growing body of clinical research supporting its effectiveness — particularly for musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, and sports injuries. Neil's approach combines established osteopathic techniques with current best practices in musculoskeletal medicine.
Is osteopathy the same as chiropractic or physiotherapy?
They are related but distinct professions. All three work with the musculoskeletal system, but differ in approach and philosophy. Osteopaths take a whole-body view and work on the relationship between structure and function across all body systems. Chiropractors focus primarily on spinal alignment. Physiotherapists typically emphasise exercise rehabilitation. In practice, there is significant overlap, and many patients benefit from seeing different practitioners for different aspects of their recovery.
Is it safe? Can I come if I'm pregnant?
Osteopathy is generally very safe when performed by a qualified, registered practitioner. Neil treats patients of all ages including pregnant women, using gentle techniques adapted to each patient's condition and stage of pregnancy. Always let Neil know about any health conditions, medications, or pregnancy at the start of your consultation.