Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
An Osteopath looks at your whole body and the connections between muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves to determine the root cause of ones’ pain or discomfort. We use the word ‘Holistic’ to define our approach as it is rare to have an injury isolated to one area or structure.
For example, someone presenting with low back pain may not realise that the way they walk can cause a change in the way their hips move. If the hips don’t move as they should, another area has to pick up the slack and work harder to offset this change. This can result in the low back working too hard and eventually resulting in pain. This of course is one of many examples of how an Osteopath can assess and diagnose a problem that isn’t directly linked to the point of your pain.
What should I wear to an appointment?
It’s recommended that you wear clothing you are able to move around in. In most cases, we are able to treat without needing to remove clothing, however, in some circumstances you may be asked to remove some items like shirts, pants or socks. Loose fitted clothing or shorts are typically easier to work around.
How long does it take to become an Osteopath?
Osteopaths in Australia need to complete a maximum 5 years of study to become registered.
Specifically in Melbourne, Osteopaths can either study at Victoria University which takes 4.5 years. This course comprises of a 3 year Bachelor of Science (Osteopathy) followed by a 1.5 year Masters of Health Science (Osteopathy).
RMIT offer the other course in Bundoora which goes for 5 years comprising of a Bachelor of Health Science (Osteopathy) and Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy).
Where are you located?
The clinic is located at 123 Martin Street in Brighton, Melbourne. I service the local areas such as Brighton, Elwood, Elsternwick, Ormond, Bentleigh and Hampton for all things Osteopathy.
How much is an Osteopathic Consultation?
We charge a flat rate of $100 for initial consultations (40 minutes) and standard follow up consultations (30 minutes).
Do you accept Private Health Insurance?
Yes! We accept Private Health for Osteopathic consultations. Private Health cannot be claimed on sauna sessions
Do I need a referral to see an Osteopath?
Simply put, no. Osteopaths are primary health practitioners meaning you can be assessed and treated without the need for a referral from a General Practitioner or Specialist. You will need a referral from a General Practitioner for Team Care Arrangement sessions however.
Is it normal to feel sore after a treatment?
Being sore afterwards can be part of the process when it comes to healing. During treatment, it may be necessary to provoke some slight discomfort to help identify what structures are causing your pain or discomfort. Sometimes after treatment this soreness can linger for 24-72 hours.
How is Osteopathy different to Physio and Chiro?
Osteopathy, Physiotherapy and Chiropractic all share a lot of similarities. Deciding which type of practitioner to address your issue can be daunting!
Physiotherapists work to improve mobility and function through exercise rehabilitation and movement empowerment. They commonly work with sporting injuries and post surgical rehab.
Chiropractors are another allied health option that individuals commonly seek for treatment. Chiropractors tend to look more at pain originating from the spine and commonly utilise joint manipulation to improve movement and decrease pain.
It’s important to note that not all Osteopaths, Physiotherapists and Chiropractors treat similarly. What I have said here is a very generalised approach to how Physio and Chiro may treat an injury.
If you’re unsure if Osteopathy may be right for your complaint, I offer the option to set up a free 15 minute phone call to discuss your complaint and whether I believe it may be right for you.