OSTEOPATHY FAQ

Osteopaths are primary health care practitioners. They are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders. The philosophy of Osteopathy is to treat the whole person, and not just the symptoms. Osteopaths focus on the relationship between the body's structure and function, whilst also recognising the body's ability to heal itself.

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Osteopaths are commonly recognised for their treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, however they also have a role to play in the management of a number of other conditions. Osteopathy is suitable for almost anyone and may contribute to alleviating an enormous range of conditions including:

• Neck and back pain

• Headaches and migraines

• Joint pain

• Sports injuries

• Arthritic conditions

• Muscle strains and tendonitis

• Work-related and Repetitive strain injuries

• Spinal Pain and 'Sciatica'

Osteopaths may also contribute towards the management of pain due to arthritic conditions, and when used in conjunction with medical treatment, may reduce the severity of symptoms associated with such conditions as asthma and chronic fatigue. Expecting mothers may also find Osteopathic treatment very beneficial to help in the reduction of back pain during pregnancy and also to help prepare the body for birth.

During the first consultation with an Osteopath, a full case history will be taken as well as a thorough examination. Osteopathic treatments are tailored to the requirements of the individual patient, and techniques are selected which are appropriate to the patient's needs.

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Osteopaths work with their hands to perform such treatment using a variety of techniques:

• Massage and stretching techniques

• Articulation techniques - joints are mobilised by being passively taken through their range of motion

• Muscle energy techniques - releasing contracted muscles by working against resistance

• Counterstrain techniques - counter stretching restricted joints and muscles whilst in position of comfort in order to achieve release

• Functional techniques - gentle joint mobilisation

• Manipulation - carried out using minimum force levels in order to maximise safety and minimise patient discomfort

• Visceral techniques - management of conditions affecting internal organs involving gentle and rhythmical stretching of the visceral areas

• Trigger point dry needling

Each Osteopathic treatment is tailored to the requirements of the individual patient, and techniques are selected which are appropriate to the patient's needs.

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Osteopaths pride themselves on getting patients better quickly and treat each patients case individually. Osteopaths aim to educate the patient about the causes of their problems and help them take responsibility for their own health. Osteopaths believe that simply getting patients to keep returning for more treatments is not the best form of long term preventive care.

Osteopaths can teach patients more efficient and less strenuous body usage in their actions at home or at work, and help patients become aware of postural problems and how to correct them.

For some acute pain, one to two treatments may be all that is necessary. Chronic conditions may need ongoing maintenance averaging six to eight sessions.

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No. Osteopaths are primary health care practitioners, therefore you do not need to obtain a referral from your doctor, simply contact the clinic directly to make an appointment.

Under Medicare Plus, patients with chronic conditions may be referred by their GP for osteopathic treatment under an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan. Partial rebates are available for those members of Private Health Funds with ancillary or "extras" cover (usually the same level of cover as for physiotherapy or chiropractic), but the amount of rebate and the conditions vary from insurer to insurer, so check the details of your policy.

Osteopaths are no longer able to issue medical certificates. These can only be given by a General Practitioner. Most employers will honour a Certificate of Continuing Incapacity issued by a registered Osteopath.

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