English for the Osteopath

SOCRATES: Pain Anamnesis and Ankle-Sprain Consultation | Osteopathic English Medical English · History Taking The SOCRATES Mnemonic for Pain Anamnesis How to explore pain systematically — with examples, an ankle-sprain consultation, and key phrases for osteopaths. What is SOCRATES? Clinical focus: SOCRATES is a framework for pain anamnesis. Each letter prompts a different dimension of the patient's story and helps you use open-ended, layperson-friendly language. S — Site Where is the pain? Interrogative: "Can you show me where the pain is?" Negative: "My right shoulder doesn't hurt at all." Affirmative: "I have this feeling along my lower back." O — Onset ...

Low Back Pain | Osteopathic English Medical English · Low Back Pain Low Back Pain Understanding causes, red flags, remedies and how to take a clear history. A summary of the condition Clinical focus: Low back pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit an osteopath. A structured history helps distinguish mechanical pain from serious pathology and guides examination and advice. Common causes Muscle strain or ligament sprain (lifting, sudden movement, overuse) Poor posture, especially prolonged sitting or standing Herniated or bulging discs Degenerative changes (osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis) Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise Obesity or excess body weight Trauma (falls, accidents) ...

Heel Spur Syndrome | Osteopathic English Medical English · Heel Spur Syndrome Heel Spur Syndrome Plantar fascia overload, heel pain on first steps and what to ask in clinic. A summary of the condition Clinical focus: Heel spur syndrome is a common cause of inferior heel pain, often linked to repetitive stress on the plantar fascia. A good history distinguishes mechanical overload from systemic causes. What commonly causes symptoms Overuse and repetitive stress on the plantar fascia High foot load: long-distance running, prolonged standing Inappropriate footwear — inadequate arch support or thin soles Obesity / overweight Age-related changes in foot structure Foot abnormalities: flat feet or high arches Sudden increase in activity level When to seek help Severe pain not improving with home care Pain that worsens or spreads Numbness or tinglin...

Fibromyalgia | Osteopathic English Medical English · Fibromyalgia Understanding Fibromyalgia Chronic widespread pain, fatigue and cognitive symptoms — how to recognise it, discuss it, and support patients. A summary of the condition Clinical focus: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterised by widespread pain and tenderness. It often coexists with fatigue, sleep disturbance and "fibro fog". There is no cure yet, but an individualised plan improves quality of life. Core features Widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest Sleep disturbances and unrefreshing sleep Brain fog — memory and concentration difficulties Diagnosis requires widespread pain > 3 months ...