Frequently Asked Questions
LEARN MORE ABOUT OSTEOPATHY AND HOW IT CAN HELP YOU FEEL BETTER.
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a holistic form is complementary medical treatment, which uses manual techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems.
An Osteopath is most concerned with the body framework and how it is functioning. They work with the body’s structure to reduce pain and to enhance and accelerate the healing process.
Who can benefit from Osteopathy?
People of all ages, from infants to the elderly, can benefit. Treatment is often sought for back and neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines, jaw pain, discomfort during pregnancy, sporting injuries etc. Babies are commonly treated for birth trauma, colic and sleeping difficulties.
Osteopathy can assist children with postural problems, accidents and falls, reoccurring infections and developmental delay. Osteopathy can also help with breathing difficulties, digestive problems, gynecological problems and lowered immune response after illness. Osteopaths play a significant role in pain management and arthritic conditions.
In addition, Osteopaths offer advice in stretching and strengthening exercises, posture, diet, lifting procedures and stress management.
What will the Osteopath do?
Firstly, there will be some questions asked in order to collate a full case history. Then during the physical examination the Osteopath will observe posture and overall mobility. She will use her highly trained palpatory skills to detect disturbances of motion. This includes motion of fluid, joint movement, muscle shortening and connective tissue elasticity. The treatment itself involves gentle manipulation of the disturbed tissue using a variety of techniques.
How many treatments will it take?
Put simply, the more chronic the injury the more treatment required. So it pays to seek treatment early rather that put up with the problem. Your Osteopath will advise you.
Do I need a Referral?
No, you don’t. However, an increasing number of Doctors are referring to Osteopaths. Osteopaths and Doctors often work together to provide the optimum care for patients.
How long are the sessions?
The first consultation takes 45-60 mins and the follow up treatments take 30-45 mins.
What training do Osteopaths have?
In Australia, Osteopaths complete a full time five year university double degree or undergraduate degree plus masters degree.
Should I bring in x-rays or scans?
Yes, if you have relevant scans please bring them in. Osteopaths are able to refer for spinal x-rays and regional MRI’s also.
Is Osteopathy new?
No Osteopathy dates back to 1872. It was developed by an American physician called Dr Andrew Taylor Still. The first Osteopath to come to Australia was in 1908 from the U.S.A.
