What is an Osteopath? It’s a question we get asked all the time by new patients, people we meet in business, and even friends and family.
An Osteopath sees people with aches and pains that stem, at least partially, from structural pressures exerted on the body. We treat conditions affecting nerves, muscles, joints and bones with a variety of hands-on therapeutic techniques. We are skilled in manual examination, diagnosis, and treatment for neuromusculoskeletal issues. Some of the conditions we treat include back pain, hip pain, foot pain and work-related pain. There are only about 1700 of us across this Australia.
Osteopaths use a variety of treatments
Osteopaths use clinical reasoning to tease out the relevant details of your story of how you’ve become injured and implement an individualised treatment plan. That plan might involve combinations of therapies such as:
- massage
- manipulation of joints
- prescribed exercise
- pain education
- counselling about injury and stress management
Osteopaths are primary health care providers
In Australia, Osteopaths work as part of primary care. Meaning you can see one without needing a referral and trust they will know what to do if your problem falls within their area of expertise (the nerves, muscles, joints and bones). We can also refer patients to another practitioner such as a GP, a specialist, or a psychologist.
Osteopaths meet high professional standards
In Australia, Osteopaths must have a minimum of five years university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic techniques. Osteopathy Australia members must be government-registered, meet high professional standards, and complete annual continuing professional education to practice.
How to find an Osteopath
When choosing an Osteopath, you need to feel comfortable with them to discuss your relevant personal history and a little bit of your medical history as well. Make sure your Osteopath takes the time to explain what they think is going on, how long they think it will take to see an improvement, and what types of treatment they suggest before starting with therapy.
Our Osteopaths, George & Geoff, have many years experience treating all ages and bring a wealth of knowledge to the Clinic to ensure you receive individualised treatment. Book your appointment today – the clinic is open 6 days per week.