Osteopathy
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine which recognises the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue, and internal organs function as a holistic unit. Using skilled evaluation, diagnosis and a wide range of hands-on techniques, Osteopaths can identify important types of dysfunction in your body.
Osteopathy treatment uses techniques such as stretching and massage for general treatment of the soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) along with mobilisation and manipulation of specific joints.
Osteopaths treat the whole person, taking into consideration psychological factors, nutritional status, lifestyle, and stress reduction. For this reason, Osteopaths offer personal advice on stretching & strengthening exercises, posture, diet & hydration, correct lifting procedures and stress management.
In Australia, Osteopaths are government registered practitioners that complete a minimum of five years’ university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and Osteopathy techniques. Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners and are trained to recognise conditions that require medical referral. They are also trained to perform standard medical examinations of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems. Osteopathy is covered by most private health funds and available under Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plans . Osteopaths are registered providers for Workers’ Compensation schemes, motor accident insurers and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Do I Need a Referral?
No. Although an increasing number of general practitioners are referring patients to Osteopaths, it is not required to have one to make an appointment.
Conversely, Osteopaths may refer you back to your general practitioner, should any further investigations be deemed necessary.
What is Osteopathy Treatment?
The primary objective of Osteopathy Treatment is to correct faults in the body’s mechanics to normalise its structure and function.
The body has an inherent tendency to heal itself. Its inbuilt ‘repair kit’ performs best when the body is mechanically sound, as it allows for the best circulation of blood and other fluids, delivery of nutrients, removal of waste products and nervous conductivity. This works to assist, accelerate, and enhance the natural healing process.
The principle therapeutic approach to Osteopathy Treatment is holistic, ‘hands-on’, non-invasive, gentle and pain relieving. It employs diverse techniques including soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation & manipulation, myofascial stretching, and gentle indirect procedures, making treatment safe for people of all ages including children and the elderly.
The Osteopath relies on physical examination, observation and highly developed palpatory skills to form a diagnosis and decide on the most appropriate course of treatment. They recognise the importance of modern medicine and technology and may refer for further investigations where appropriate.
What to Expect At Your First Consultation
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You will be required to fill out a personal details and medical history form; so please allow approximately 10 minutes for this.
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It is advisable to bring any relevant scans, test results and reports to assist with a diagnosis.
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Your Osteopath will ask you a series of questions regarding your current symptoms and previous relevant medical history.
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To be examined you will be required to remove clothing from the area of concern and any related areas. To maximise the comfort of our patients, a gown can be provided upon request or when necessary. We recommend wearing light weight clothing and appropriate underwear; like those one would wear to the gym.
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After examination, the Osteopath will explain the diagnosis and proposed plan of treatment.
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Treatment will be performed at the initial consultation and home exercises (usually stretching) will be prescribed.