What conditions do osteopaths treat?

Osteopaths can address an array of musculoskeletal conditions including but not limited to:

• Joint pain and arthritis
• Back pain and neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Pelvic pain
• Sciatica
• Muscle strains and tears
• Ligament sprains
• Tendon injuries and bursitis
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
• Postural aches and pains
• Jaw pain
• Pregnancy pain and post natal care

What training is required to be an osteopath?

Osteopaths are university trained, government registered, allied health practitioners. Training requires five years of study across a broad range of sciences including anatomy, physiology, pathology, clinical diagnostics, exercise rehabilitation, nutrition and psychology. Osteopaths are trained in the diagnosis of general health conditions and are able to recognise conditions that require medical referral. They can also perform standard examinations of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems.

What should I expect from a consultation?

Osteopaths utilise a broad range of manual techniques that includes joint articulation, massage, muscle energy technique, myofascial release, stretching, counterstain, visceral manipulation and osteopathy in the cranial field. In addition to manual therapy many osteopaths provide self management strategies such as exercise prescription and lifestyle advice. On your first visit you can expect your osteopath to:

• Take a detailed record of your presenting complaint and your current health to date.
• Perform medical and osteopathic examinations as required to establish a diagnosis. Depending on the area of injury, this may require (with your permission) undressing to your underwear.
• Explanation of the diagnosis and proposed treatment and management strategies. In some instances this may include referral to other health practitioners.
• Manual therapy to address your complaint.
• Prescription of self management strategies to empower you to take control of your health

Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

No, you can make an appointment directly online or by phone 9774 5630

Can I claim the cost of treatment?

Yes, osteopathy is covered by most private health funds. Clients with chronic conditions may also be able to claim through medicare if referred by their GP under a Chronic Disease Management Plan

What types of techniques do osteopaths use?

Osteopaths can utilise a very broad range of techniques to address client complaints. The selection of techniques used by any one osteopath is based first on which techniques are appropriate for a given client, followed by the osteopaths personal preference of which techniques they find most effective. Techniques which osteopaths may use in practice include: Soft tissue work ie: massage, stretching, muscle energy technique (MET), and counterstrain. These technqiues aim to relax, soften and lengthen tight muscles. Mobilisation ie: joint articulation, muscle energy technique (MET) and joint manipulation These techniques aim to increase the range of motion of a joint Myofascial release A technique that releases tension and strain in the fascia of the body. Balanced Ligamentous Tension A technique that literally aims to balance the tension in the ligaments on either side of a joint or bone. Visceral manipulation These tecniques aim to release tension in the viscera (organs) and their surrounding connective tissues. They are very gentle. Exercise Rehabilitation & Self Management Strategies While not a hands on manual technique, the prescription of rehabilitation exercises and or self management strategies is, in our opinion, essential to clients achieving and maintaining their health goals over the long term.

What is the difference between an osteo, a physio and a chiro?

Let's be clear. There is lots of overlap between them. Each profession addresses a similar range of conditions and even utilises some of the same manual techniques. The key difference is perhaps in the philosophy behind each profession and the differences in approach to diagnosis and treatment. The bottom line is that osteos, physios and chiros are all musculoskeletal therapists who strive to make people feel better. Each profession uses a combination of manual, hands on techniques and education to help clients manage their pain and injuries. If you're wondering whether or not osteopathy is for you, contact us. We're more than happy to answer any questions. If you would like to learn more about each of the professions, visit the association websites for osteopathy, physiotherapy and chiropractic.

Why are some osteopaths referred to as Doctors?

The profession as a whole has elected to use the title Doctor when referring to an osteopath. However, whether or not an individual osteopath wishes to use the title Doctor, is up to their own discretion. Choosing not to use the title Doctor in no way implies that they have less training or experience than an osteopath who does choose to use the title.

How will I feel after a treatment?

The general aim of each treatment is to relieve pain, increase mobility and improve over all function. Some people will feel better immediately after a treatment. In other cases, people experience soreness or a worsening of symptoms for 24-48 hours, as the body adapts to the changes made during the treatment. This is commonly referred to as 'post treatment soreness'. Depending on the type of techniques used during your consultation, you may also feel fatigued. If you experience post treatment soreness the best thing to do is rest and recooperate. If your response to treatment is not what you expected or if you are uncertain about whether or not your response to treatment is 'normal' contact your practitioner who will be able to advise you.

Is osteopathy an evidenced based medicine?

Yes. Evidenced based medicine is defined as 'the conscientious, explicit, and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients. The practice of evidence based medicine means integrating individual clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research.'