Osteopathy

Osteopaths provide manual therapy for a wide range of musculoskeletal and other complaints. Osteopathic treatment focuses on improving the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, with the aim of improving the person‘s overall well-being. In Australia, osteopaths are government-registered practitioners who complete a minimum five years university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic technique.

Osteopaths work within the framework of an integrated health care system, and as such refer to other health care providers when appropriate.

Osteopaths have the option to choose from a wide variety of osteopathic techniques when recommending the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual. The following list includes some of the osteopathic techniques that may be included or excluded within a treatment plan, after discussion and agreement with the person for whom the plan is formulated.

Please note that osteopathic treatment plans can be readily formulated without the use of spinal manipulation (high velocity/ low amplitude techniques).

- Soft tissue massage, counter strain and muscle energy techniques to release soft tissues and normalise resting length of muscles.

- Articulation and mobilisation (gentle passive movements) to improve joint range of motion

- High velocity/low amplitude (H.V.L.A.) manipulation to improve joint range of motion

- Cranial osteopathic techniques

- Stretching exercises

- Strengthening exercises

- Exercise prescription

- Lifestyle recommendations

Osteopaths treat people of all ages from newborns and pregnant women, through to school children, athletes, adults and seniors.

Conditions commonly treated include acute and chronic low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, whiplash injury, tension headaches and migraines, pregnancy related back and pelvic pain, sports injuries, muscle and tendon injuries such as rotator cuff, plantar fasciitis, golfers and tennis elbows.