FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Osteopathy is a hands-on form of manual therapy with a particular focus on the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths believe that structure has a significant impact on function, and vica versa. Osteopaths focus on how the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, gastrointestinal system and circulation function as a holistic unit to promote mobility and improve health.
No GP referral needed to see us! But if your appointment is for Workers Compensation, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Chronic Disease Management (CDM), you'll need one. We also treat TAC patients with a valid claim number.
You do not need private health insurance to see an Osteopath, however if you are covered by private health insurance with extras cover - you are eligible to claim back a partial rebate through your health insurance provider.
Please note, the rebate amount varies between providers and level of cover.
At Whole Health Osteopathy, we offer HICAPS on-site meaning you are able to claim on the spot for your treatment through private health and Medicare. Just make sure you bring along your private health insurance membership card and other documents.
Most osteopathic treatment is manual therapy and should not cause undue discomfort.
If your injuries do require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, our osteopaths aim to make you as comfortable as possible.
There are techniques which may cause some short-term discomfort or pain.
You may experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, like that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, please call our team at Whole Health Osteopathy to discuss your concerns.
If it's your first visit, here's what to do: Familiarize yourself with the appointment process. It takes about 45-60 minutes. We'll ask about your medical history to tailor your treatment. You'll need to sign an ‘informed consent’ form, which you can withdraw at any time. Bring any X-rays, scans, or test results. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to get settled and sign any necessary forms. Wear comfortable clothing!
At Whole Health Osteopathy, our osteopaths start off with a short consultation prior to treatment. In this consultation, we will record your current and past medical history, current areas of concern and symptoms, as well as any medication you are taking and other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem.
Our osteo’s will then communicate the treatment plan with you, and in some cases, may need to refer you on.
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We will then conduct an examination and relevant clinical tests. These include diagnostic, orthopaedic, or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which determine how best to manage your condition.
The examination may include passive and active movements. The osteopath may lift your arms or legs and you may be asked to bend over or stand in your underwear. Be sure to wear comfortable, flexible, and appropriate underwear.
Once your treatment plan has been explained to you, you can chose to move ahead with treatment by providing your osteopath with informed consent. Informed consent can be withdrawn at any point during treatment. All Consent forms will be signed in the treatment room once treatment has been explained.
Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to assessment and treatment. Your osteopath may look at the area that is troubling you as well as other parts of your body. For example, if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back.
Treatment can involve a variety of techniques – including soft tissue massage, muscle techniques, joint articulation, mobilisation or manipulation, or dry needling.
We may also provide education and advice to help you manage your condition between treatments. This may include giving you exercises to do at home or work.
It is important you inform your osteopath if your medical condition changes over time. This includes any new injuries or change of medications.
It depends on the treatment area. You might need to undress to your underwear, but we provide a modesty gown and you'll always be draped with towels. You can also wear shorts and a singlet for comfort. If you wear a bra, choose one that can be unclasped at the back for better access.
Yes, you can! Just like visiting a GP, you can bring a partner or relative to your consultation and treatment.
It really depends on your condition! Usually, you'll notice some changes after one or two visits. For long-term or chronic issues, more treatments might be needed. We'll discuss your specific treatment plan and prognosis together.