Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Osteo
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopaths aim to help reduce pain in all areas of the body including muscle, nerve, joint, bone, ligament, tendon and connective tissue. They do this by restoring the body’s function so it can work as it was designed too. It can help to reduce pain, speed up recovery and move towards the body’s peak performance. Developed by Dr Andrew Still in 1892 who believed in the power of preventative medicine and treating the cause rather than the symptoms. A high level of anatomy and physiology is still required to become an osteopath, a qualifications resulting from 5 years at university.
Is there an osteopath near me?
If you live in Kensington, Moonee ponds, Flemington, Ascot Vale or Travancore the local osteo near you is Mixed Osteo. We also treat many patients from North Melbourne, Footscray, West Footscray, Parkville and Brunswick. Call to have your questions answered or to make an osteopathic appointment click here.
Do I need a referral?
No, osteopaths are primary health care professionals so no referral from your GP is necessary. However we frequently receive referrals from GP’s and when we do we work with your doctor to provide a treatment plan specific to your needs. If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition you may be eligible for Chronic Disease Management (CDM) assistance. Your GP will need to complete a specific referral form prior to treatment for you to claim part of the consultation fee from medicare.
Can I use my private health insurance? What payment options are available?
Yes, osteopathy is covered by most health insurers ‘extras’ cover. We recommend contacting your private health insurer to clarify the terms and conditions of your policy. They should also be able to tell you how much of the fee will be covered.
How qualified is an Osteopath?
Osteopaths are highly trained health professionals. In Australia they are required to complete a minimum of 5 years of full time University training comprising a 3 year Bachelor degree and a 2 year Masters, or double bachelor degree. To practise, osteopaths are required to be registered by the Osteopathy Board of Australia which is regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). To maintain registration osteopaths are required to complete 25 hours of Continued Professional Development (CPD) each year.
What should I expect at my initial consultation?
When initially arriving at the clinic you will be asked to complete a personal information form including some questions regarding your medical history. In the consultation that follows, a full case history will be taken by your osteopath. During your appointment the osteopath will perform a comprehensive examination using a standard medical approach to diagnose your condition. Upon diagnosis your osteopath will provide suitable hands-on treatment and outline for you, in plain language, a management strategy to best resolve your presenting health concern. We are committed to providing you with a long term solution for your complaint.
Is Osteopathic treatment suitable for my condition?
Osteopaths are well equipped with the skills necessary to identify whether treatment is suitable for you or whether referral to another health professional is required. Please refer to the list of commonly treated conditions by osteopaths. This list however is by no means exhaustive so please don’t hesitate to call us should you have any further queries.