FAQs

What happens on my first consultation?

Your osteopath will ask questions about your problem and symptoms, your medical history, any medications you are taking or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem. If your medical condition changes during the course of your osteopathic treatment, you should tell your osteopath.

Next, your osteopath will conduct a full osteopathic examination and if necessary, clinical tests. This may involve diagnostic, orthopaedic or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which will help determine how best to manage your condition.

As osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment, your practitioner may look at other parts of your body, as well as the area that is troubling you. 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.

How many treatments will I need/how often?

The number of treatments you need depends on the condition and person we are treating. We aim to keep your appointments to a minimum. Your osteopath will be able to tell you within a short period of time whether they can treat you or if they need to refer you to someone else.

Generally you would expect to see some changes in your symptoms after one or two visits; however, some long-term or chronic conditions may require a longer course or more frequent treatment. If you have any concerns, your osteopath will be happy to discuss these with you.

Will I be referred for an X-ray or further tests?

After undertaking a physical examination and diagnostic testing, your osteopath may decide that it is appropriate to request additional investigations such as X-ray, scans or blood tests.

Do I need a referral from my GP ?

Many patients are referred to osteopaths by their doctors, other health practitioners or personal trainers. However, as osteopaths are primary care practitioners, you can make an appointment directly without a referral.

If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition and require complex care you may be eligible for Chronic Disease Management (CDM) assistance. The GP must complete a special referral form (PDF, 201kb) to refer you to an osteopath for treatment.

What styles of massage are available?

Our massage therapists may incorporate a number of styles, depending on your body and requirements.

• Remedial/Deep Tissue- targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It is useful for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, fibromyalgia,postural problems and recovery from injury.
• Pregnancy- pre- and post-natal massage helps to reduce stress and anxiety, decrease swelling, relieve muscle spasm and cramps, and ease pain at a time when medication or other medical options may be limited.
• Trigger Point/Neuromuscular- involves applying pressure to individual muscles to balance the nervous system, increase blood flow, reduce pain and release trigger points. This technique is commonly used for headaches, carpal tunnel/nerve compression,  and general muscle tension and pain.
• Swedish/ Relaxation- incorporates long strokes and kneading and friction techniques to help release muscle tension, increase circulation of blood, improve range of movement and calm the nervous system.
• Sports- useful for physically active people and pre- and post-competition.  Sport massage helps to minimise injury risks, improves physical performance, and aids post-activity and injury recovery time.

Will my medical records be kept safely and confidentially?

Yes our practice complies with the NSW Government Privacy policy.