What training do Osteopaths have?

All our Osteopaths are government-registered practitioners of manual medicine. They have done at least one of 2 undergraduate courses at RMIT or VUT, which are five years full time. They are all taking constantly part in further studies and qualifications, which are necessary to keep their knowledge up and maintain registration with the Australian Osteopathic Association (AOA), too.

What makes an Osteopath different?

Osteopaths diagnose and treats faults, which occur because of injury, stress or perhaps disease, to enable to musculo-sceletal system (bones, joints, muscles and connective tissue) to work as efficiently as possible, allowing the body to restore itself to normal function.

Osteopathy is a very safe form of treatment. It uses no drugs. Instead Osteopaths work with their hands, using a wide range of treatment techniques. This includes soft tissue massage, mobilisation, stretching and manipulation where appropriate, designed to improve the range of joint movement.

An Osteopath can advise on correct posture and movement. They can also give you instructions on back care and preventive and corrective exercises some of them Yoga or Pilates related.

What should I expect from my first treatment?

When you come to your first visit we will ask you about current condition and any related past injuries and your medical history.
You will normally be asked to remove some of your clothing (please make sure you wear suitable underwear).

You will then be asked to perform a simple series of movement (reflex, muscle power, vibration and sensory power) so that  mobility of your body can be evaluated. Any points of weakness, excessive strain or specific injury will be identified.

The practitioner will than explain to you in simple terms what is the cause of your problem and discuss your treatment.

Your Osteopath will than discuss your medical and life history and than giving you a physical examination, work out a treatment plan tailored to your needs and will in most cases start the treatment.

What does the treatment of a baby involve?

Your baby can get osteopathic treatment as soon as after the birth. The case history will explore your health during pregnancy, position of your baby during pregnancy and labour, labour story and complications or interventions, the short history of your baby’s life including medications, accidents, behaviour, bowel habits, sleeping and feeding patterns.

Does the treatment hurt my baby?

The baby doesn’t feel any more discomfort than he/she already has. However, even the gentle touch that we use can remind them of the compressive forces felt during labour, so they often cry during a treatment. The pressure used is as light as the pressure you would apply when you cuddle your baby.

Do I need a referral?

No. It is not necessary to have a Doctor’s referral to consult an Osteopath.

Is there any age restriction on treatments?

No. There are no age restrictions for osteopathic treatments. An Osteopath can treat newborns, children as well as older age people very successfully according to their needs and requirements.

Is osteopathic treatment available under Medicare?

Yes. With the government initiative under Medicare Plus, patients with chronic conditions may be referred by their GP for osteopathic treatment.

Can I claim osteopathic consultation from my private health insurance?

Yes, depending on your level of cover. We are registered with many insurance companies but we advise that you check directly with your health fund provider before making an appointment with us.  We’re offering HICAPS. This system enables you to claim your benefits here at the clinic. You just have to bring your Health insurance card.

How do I find the best health cover for me?

There are probably various ways of finding the best cover for you.
One option can be to contact all the providers and work your way through their information. The easier way is to get someone doing all that work for you. Health-link consultants offer a free service for finding the right cover at the right price. Just let them know you are coming from us… easy!