Osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on approach to healthcare that focuses on how your body's skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, and internal organs work together as a whole. This holistic practice recognizes the crucial link between your body's structure and how it functions.
At its core, osteopathy is based on the principle that your body has an innate ability to heal itself. An osteopath's role is to facilitate this natural healing process by identifying and treating areas of tension, restriction, or dysfunction in your body.
While osteopathy can be highly effective for these conditions, it's important to note that every patient is unique. During your initial consultation, we'll perform a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs. If you're suffering from any of these conditions or experiencing pain that isn't listed here, we encourage you to reach out to us.
Medical History Review: We'll discuss your current symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and health goals to gain a comprehensive understanding of your health status.
Physical Examination: Our osteopaths will conduct a thorough physical examination, which may include:
Observing your posture and movement patterns
Assessing joint mobility and muscle tension
Evaluating your balance and coordination
Checking your spine and pelvis alignment
Specialised Osteopathic Assessment: Using their highly trained sense of touch (palpation), our osteopaths will identify areas of tension, restriction, or dysfunction in your body's structure.
Diagnostic Tests: If necessary, we may recommend additional diagnostic tests to get a clearer picture of your condition.
Manual Therapy Techniques: Such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and stretching
Gentle Osteopathic Techniques: Including cranial osteopathy and myofascial release
Exercise Prescription: Customised exercises to support your recovery and prevent future issues
Ergonomic Advice: Recommendations for workplace setups and daily activities to support your health
Lifestyle Recommendations: Guidance on diet, sleep, and stress management to enhance your overall wellbeing
Addressing Root Causes: Rather than just treating symptoms, we aim to identify and address the underlying causes of your condition.
Considering All Factors: We take into account how your skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, and internal organs work together.
Collaborative Care: When appropriate, we work alongside other healthcare providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
Follow-up Appointments: We'll regularly assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Education: We empower you with knowledge about your condition and provide strategies for self-management.
Preventive Care: We focus not just on resolving current issues, but also on preventing future problems.
Open Communication: We encourage ongoing dialogue about your health concerns and progress.
During your first appointment, expect a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and discussion of your symptoms. Your osteopath will explain their findings and propose a treatment plan.
Yes, osteopathic treatment is generally safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. Like any medical treatment, there may be minor side effects such as temporary soreness.
The number of sessions varies depending on your condition and response to treatment. Your osteopath will discuss a recommended treatment plan after your initial assessment.
No, you don't need a referral to see an osteopath in Australia. However, a referral may be required for certain insurance claims.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Bring any relevant medical records or imaging results. Be prepared to discuss your medical history and current symptoms.
Osteopaths use various hands-on techniques including soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilisation, stretching, and may incorporate methods like dry needling or cupping when appropriate.
Many private health insurance plans in Australia cover osteopathy treatments. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement and access to the areas needing treatment.
Yes, osteopathy can be effective in managing chronic pain by addressing underlying musculoskeletal issues and improving overall body function.
Yes, osteopathy is suitable for children and pregnant women. Osteopaths use gentle techniques adapted for these patients' specific needs.
You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly or using our online booking system on our website.
While osteopaths in Australia are not medical doctors, they are highly trained allied health professionals. They complete a minimum of five years of university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis, and osteopathic techniques. Registered osteopaths are recognised by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and must meet strict ongoing professional development requirements.
Osteopathy offers a complement to conventional medicine, often working alongside other healthcare providers to offer you comprehensive care. Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply want to improve your overall health, osteopathy provides a holistic, patient-centred approach to help you achieve your health goals.
Hello,
I'm Michael von Mengersen, Principal Osteopath at Inner West Osteopathy. I wanted to personally welcome you to our practice.
At Inner West Osteopathy, we believe in the power of compassionate, personalised care. Our goal is simple: to help you feel better, move more freely, and enjoy life to its fullest. Whether you're seeking relief from pain or looking to improve your overall wellbeing, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Thank you for considering us as partners in your health journey. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your health goals.
Warmest regards,
