• What is an osteopath?

Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners, trained in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

• Why see an osteopath?
  • Here at Balanced Bodies Osteopathy, we treat conditions such as:
    • Neck pain
    • Back pain
    • Hip, Knee, Ankle, Shoulder, Elbow and Wrist pain
    • Sore/achy muscles
    • Headaches
    • Pelvic pain
    • Growing pains
    • Sciatica
    • Musculoskeletal discomfort related to pregnancy
    • Repetitive strain related injuries
    • Whiplash
    • Sporting injuries
    • Age related aches and pains
    • Rehabilitation

What techniques and procedures do osteopaths use?

Please refer to our link “Techniques”.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No, you do not need a referral to see an osteopath. You can make an appointment directly by phoning your clinic of choice.

Who pays for the consultation? Am I covered?

The patient pays for the entire consultation unless they have been issued a Chronic Disease Management Plan, or own private health
insurance. Here the patient has the choice of using the Medicare referral given to them by their general practitioner, or alternatively they may decide to use their private health insurance ancillary cover. To find out more about the Chronic Disease Management Scheme or whether you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, please refer to our “Medicare” link.

What do I need to bring to my first appointment?

You are encouraged to bring along any X-rays, scans or test results that you may have.

Am I required to arrive early for my first appointment?

Yes, you are encouraged to arrive 10-15 minutes early for your first appointment as you will need to fill out your initial paperwork.

Why am I asked to complete paperwork?

Your practitioner will need to record your previous and current medical history to further discuss relevant treatment options. Legally, an osteopath needs to obtain your approval before treatment. Therefore you may be asked to sign an ‘informed consent’ form at your initial visit.

What should I wear? ?

It’s important that you feel comfortable at all times, so we encourage you to wear a comfortable shirt and loose pants or shorts.

Do I have to remove my clothes?

Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear. If this is the case you should be offered a gown.

Can I bring a friend or relative? ?

Yes, you are more than welcome to have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment. What happens at my first consultation? Your osteopath will ask about your problem and symptoms. This will include your medical history, any medications you are taking or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem. Your osteopath will advise you if they can treat you or if you may need to be referred. Your osteopath will conduct an examination and clinical tests. This may include diagnostic, orthopedic or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which will help the practitioner to determine how to best 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. Osteopathy takes a whole of body approach to 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. Your osteopath 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.

What if my condition changes over time?

It is important to inform your osteopath of any changes in your condition, any new injuries and any changes in your medications.

Is osteopathic treatment painful?

Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and should not cause undue discomfort. If your injuries require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your osteopath should aim to make you as comfortable as possible. There are some techniques that may cause some short term discomfort or pain and you may experience mild soreness for approximately 24-48 hours after the treatment, this may feel similar to that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, call your osteopath to discuss your concerns.

How long will my appointment take?

Your initial consultation may last up to 1.5 hours. This will enable your osteopath to take a thorough history, examine and depending upon your condition, treat you. Follow-up treatments are generally shorter. It is best to check your appointment length when booking.

How many appointments will I need?

This depends on your condition. Generally you would expect to see some changes in your symptoms after one or two visits, though long term or chronic conditions may require more treatment.

How much does an appointment cost?

The costs vary from practice to practice and across the country – It is advisable to ask when booking.

Are there additional investigations or treatments?

Your osteopath may decide that additional investigations such as X-rays, scans or blood tests may be required and may therefore refer you to another health professional.