+ Do I need a referral from my GP?

No, 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 or Enhanced primary care form (EPC). The GP must complete the special forms to refer you to an osteopath for treatment.

+ What do I need to bring?

Bring along any X-rays, scans or test results that you may have. Otherwise, just wear comfortable clothing that you can move easily in.

+ Am I required to arrive early for my first appointment?

If you could arrive about 5 minutes early to fill out the initial patient form and read over the informed consent form that'd be great.

+ What should I wear to my appointment?

It’s important that you feel comfortable, so wear a comfortable shirt and loose pants or bring a pair of shorts to change into.

+ Do I have to remove my clothes?

Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear. This isn't essential and the primary concern is that you're comfortable being assessed.

+ What happens at my first appointment?

Your osteopath will ask about your problem and symptoms. This will include your medical history, any medications you are taking or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem. Your osteopath will advise you if they can treat you or you need to be referred.

Your osteopath will conduct an examination and clinical tests. These include diagnostic, orthopaedic or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which will help determine how best to manage your condition.

The examination may include passive and active movements. The osteopath may lift your arms or legs and you may be asked to bend over or stand in your underwear. Be sure to wear comfortable, flexible and appropriate underwear.

Osteopathy takes a whole body approach to assessment and treatment. Your osteopath may look at the area that is troubling you as well as other parts of your body. 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.

+ What if my condition changes over time?

It is important you tell your osteopath if your medical condition changes over time. This includes any new injuries, new illnesses or change of medications.

+ Is osteopathic treatment painful?

Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and should not cause undue discomfort. If your injuries do require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your osteopath will aim to make you as comfortable as possible.

There are techniques which may cause some short term discomfort or pain.

You may experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, call your osteopath to discuss your concerns.

+ How long will my appointment take?

Your initial consultation may last up to one hour. This will enable your osteopath to take a thorough history, examine and depending upon your condition, treat you. Follow-up treatments are usually 30 minutes. If it's been longer than 2 years since your last appointment you will need a full hour. Please check the appointment length when booking.

+ How many appointments will I need?

This depends on your condition. Generally you would expect to see some changes in your symptoms after three to five visits. Long term or chronic conditions may require more treatment. Your osteopath will discuss this with you.

+ Will I need additional investigations or treatments?

Following treatment, your osteopath may decide that additional investigations such as X-ray, scans or blood tests are required. Your osteopath may refer you to another health professional.