What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy falls within the allied health system and is a form of manual healthcare. The  philosophy of Osteopathy is about recognising the importance of the link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. Osteopaths are university trained, primary health care professionals and focus their treatment and management on how the skeleton, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit.  

Osteopaths use a range of techniques to optimise health and function, including manual therapy (stretching, massage, manipulation, mobilisation), exercise prescription, ergonomic advice, preventative lifestyle advice and patient education.

Osteopaths are trained to recognise conditions that require medical referral. In Australia, Osteopaths are government registered professionals who complete a minimum of five years of university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology and osteopathic techniques. Osteopathy is covered as an extra by most private health funds and by Medicare’s Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plans.

Osteopathic treatment may be helpful for complaints affecting the musculoskeletal system, such as:

·      Neck and back pain

·      Sciatica

·      Disc injuries

·      Repetitive muscle strains such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and tennis/golfers elbow

·      Sporting injuries

·      Headaches/migraines

·      Tendonitis

·      Bursitis

·      Pregnancy related pelvic pain

·      Muscle, joint and arthritic pain

·      Foot complaints such as plantar fasciitis