How does a pachymeter work?

The Occuity PM1 pachymeter uses an optical technique which means it is completely non -contacting, unlike existing invasive ultrasound pachymeters, which have to directly contact a patient's eye. The measurement principle is a called a confocal scan – a tightly focussed beam of invisible light is scanned through the cornea and the reflections are detected and analysed to determine the thickness of the cornea.

Who can operate the Occuity PM1 pachymeter?

As the PM1 is non-contacting and cannot hurt the patient, it can therefore be used by a wide range of operators both clinical and non clinical. It is easy to use thanks to it’s intuitive interface and can be taught in mere minutes.

What price-range do you anticipate the device will be in?

We intend that the price will be competitive with the existing ultrasound meters but will have many significant advantages, such as the fact it is non-contacting, provides a better customer experience, uses no consumables and is safer and easier to operate.

What practice environments do you anticipate Occuity PM1 pachymeter will benefit the most?

Most practice environments would benefit from a pachymeter, primarily in order to better understand the patient’s risk of glaucoma. The Corneal Centre Thickness (CCT), can affect the validity and accuracy of the IOP (intra ocular pressure) measured by the tonometer. Knowing the CCT will allow clinicians to understand if their tonometer is actually under or over estimating the IOP. Many clinicians also make the mistake of not knowing what their tonometer assumes corneal thickness to be. Most non-contact tonometers assume a corneal thickness of 550 microns, whereas the Goldmann assumes a thickness of 520 microns.

If a practice is involved in Glaucoma shared care, for example, they should measure CCT and provide this with their reports, along with IOP and sometimes ‘corrected’ IOP.

Patients with thinner corneas are at a higher risk of glaucoma as well, so understanding the risk factors is important.

However, there are also other circumstances where CCT may be useful, such as detection of Fuch’s endothelial dystrophy in post cataract patients, detection or progression of KCC (Keratoconus) or other corneal ectasia’s and also assessing the stability of corneal grafts.’

It takes 10 seconds – is this for one reading or multiple? How many readings are required per eye?

The meter actually scans at ~200Hz so collects many scans each second. So multiple readings are collected but the result is displayed as the average of those along with the standard deviation (variability) figure.

What can osteopathy help with?

Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and treatment which addresses pain and dysfunction in the body and can be used for a wide range of injuries and ailments. Osteopathy can help but is not limited to the following: - Back pain - Sports Injuries - Sciatica and trapped nerves - Spinal disc injuries - Arthritic pain - Headaches - Whiplash - Neck and shoulder pain - Joint and muscle aches - Postural problems - Frozen Shoulder - Fibromyalgia - Knee pain - Tennis elbow - Repetitive strain

Is osteopathy suitable for me?

Osteopaths assess and treat people of all ages from newborns and babies, to children, adults, sports people, pregnant women and the elderly. During the initial consultation, the osteopath will ask questions about your presenting complaint, your general health and past medical history and carry out a physical examination. If there are any signs of serious conditions that the osteopath can not treat, they will advise that you see your GP or go to hospital for further tests.

Will treatment be painful?

Generally osteopathy does not hurt, however some techniques are more uncomfortable than others, especially when working on sore painful areas. If you are not happy or in discomfort please do not hesitate to tell your osteopath straight away. Due to the physical nature of the treatment, it is not unusual to feel achy or stiff in the 24- 48 hours following treatment. If you have any concerns please contact your osteopath for advice.

Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

No you do not require a referral to visit an osteopath.

What happens on my first visit?

A thorough case history will be taken, covering details on your presenting complaint, your general health and your past medical history. Following that, a physical examination is conducted to assess posture and mobility. Some specific tests may be carried out to assist with diagnosis and to help discover any underlying causes. Because of the body's structure, pain or stiffness you may be experiencing in one area may be linked to a problem elsewhere. Please be aware that you may be asked to undress to your underwear for this. The osteopath will discuss their findings, diagnosis and treatment plan. With your consent hands-on treatment will begin. Self-help measures and exercises may be offered at the end of treatment to assist your recovery. If you are unsure of anything or have any questions regarding your diagnosis or treatment please do not hesitate to ask.

Why does the osteopath need to know my medical history?

It is necessary that the osteopath has as much information about your medical conditions as possible to aid with diagnosis and to help to decide whether it is safe and appropriate to treat you. All information you provide is kept confidential under the Data Protection Act 1988.

How long are the appointments?

The first visit is 50 minutes long and includes a minimum of 30 minutes of hands on treatment. Follow up treatments are 30 minutes long. If you wish to have longer treatment time please discuss with the osteopath.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required will depend on your presenting complaint, the severity and how long you have had it. With cases where the pain is more acute, a number of treatments in a shorter space of time may be more effective. Generally treatments are spaced one week apart, although as the condition improves they become more spaced out.

How can I pay for my treatment?

Payment methods accepted are card, cash and cheques.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a chaperone with you. Clients aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult to all treatments.

What do I need to wear?

You may be asked to undress to your underwear during the treatment. If you are uncomfortable with undressing, you are welcome to wear loose clothing, such as sweatpants or yoga trousers and a t-shirt or vest. Alternatively you can bring a pair of shorts to change into.

How do I book an appointment?

To book an appointment you can either call Kim on 07540 314 844, send an email to kimwesterman@hotmail.co.uk or send a message using the contact form. Alternatively you can contact The Therapy Lodge or YouNique to make an appointment. Appointments are available Monday-Saturday including weekday evenings.

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• Battery Size: TBC