Osteopathy

Osteopathy FAQs

Why choose osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of medicine, not just one treatment. Osteopaths are government-registered allied health professionals who can help identify more important types of dysfunction in your body. They look at how your skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves and circulation work together to improve your health and well-being.

The focus with osteopathy is to treat the whole patient and techniques will vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. Osteopaths take a global view of the body and look to find the cause of what may be a barrier to you regaining optimum health. The aim is to relieve pain: ie- reduce it’s intensity, frequency and duration.

What can I expect at an osteopathy treatment?

At your first visit a detailed case history will be taken, which may include asking about any current medication, previous illnesses, operations and other areas of your health you may not think are directly connected. osteopathy treats the whole being and this information is important as it helps your osteopath to understand your individual health profile, to be able to diagnose correctly and treat you safely.

After the case history, the problem area will be assessed, you will likely be asked to do a few movements and your osteopath may also carry out some tests before proceeding with treatment.

If you need to be referred back to your GP, for whatever reason, we will work closely with your family doctor to ensure you get the best possible care.

How does an osteopathic treatment feel?

Treatment consists of several things;  hands-on body work (which may include massage, stretching, joint movements, mobilisation and/or manipulation, gentle fascial release or cranio-sacral movements), advice on posture, exercise and stretching, as well as education on body health. If your injuries do require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your osteopath will aim to make you as comfortable as possible.

Osteopathic treatment is generally considered safe, but occasionally it may cause adverse reactions in some people. Following a treatment, some people may experience mild soreness or aching for 24-48 hours, which is normal, and this is just the body’s way of dealing with the changes that have occurred. If you are at all concerned about how your body is feeling after treatment, please contact us to discuss this.

What should I wear?

Due to the hands-on nature of the treatment and that your range of movement will be assessed, pleae come dressed in clothes that aren’t bulky or restrictive.

It’s not always necessary to remove all of your clothing for a treatment, however, depending on the area and the injury that you are presenting with, your osteopath may ask you to remove or lift up items of clothing so they can see the skin and feel the tissues.

Do I need a referral from a GP?

No, you do not need a GP referral.

Do I need to bring anything?

If you have any X-rays, scans or test results that are appropriate, please bring them along.

How many treatments will I need?

This will depend on several factors – How long the issue has been there, lifestyle factors, overall general health and how you respond to osteopathic treatment. Simple issues can usually be treated quickly and most people will notice a change within a couple of visits. However, more long-term problems may require more on-going care. You are re-assessed at every appointment to make sure you are getting the best and most appropriate course of treatment. Your health is our priority and we will tailor a treatment plan to meet your individual needs.

How long do treatments take?

Initial appointments last up to 1 hour ($120)

Follow up appointments are up to 40 minutes ($100)

What if I have private health care?

We offer on the spot private health cover rebate claiming through HICAPs, bring your health fund membership card to your appointment to claim on the spot.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

We require at least 24hrs notice for cancellations so we may offer the appointment slot to another patient. If less than 24hrs notice is given, or you don’t turn up for your appointment you will be charged a cancellation fee of 50%.

Is my information kept private and secure?

Yes. Your notes are kept with respect and confidentiality. None of your information is shared without your consent.

If you would like to know how osteopathy can help you, please call 02 4454 1863.