the osteo’s around the bend & down the road

myOsteo is about 2 minutes south of the gorgeous Point Arkwright in the Yaroomba Shopping Village. Get in touch on 07 5473 9300, or move with us into the current times & book online ; or click here to find other ways to get in touch.

So what’s the difference between us and physiotherapy? Experience is the greatest teacher, so ideally you’d come in and get a taste rather than relying or words. But, healthcare is important, as is who you choose to see. Here is some information that may help you decide.

In Australia, both osteopathy and physiotherapy are recognised and regulated healthcare professions that focus on musculoskeletal health and rehabilitation. While they share some similarities, there are also notable differences in their approach, education, and scope of practice:

  1. Education and Training:

    • Osteopathy: Osteopaths in Australia are trained to earn a Bachelor of Clinical Sciences and Master of Osteopathy (BOst/MOst) degree. Their education includes a five-year program covering anatomy, physiology, musculoskeletal assessment, osteopathic techniques, and clinical experience. Osteopathic training emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare, considering the interrelationship between the body's structure and function.

    • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists in Australia complete a Bachelor of Physiotherapy or a Master of Physiotherapy degree. Their education includes a four-year program that focuses on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation techniques. Physiotherapists use evidence-based practices to assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.

  2. Treatment Approach:

    • Osteopathy: Osteopaths use osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) as one of their primary treatment modalities. OMT involves a range of hands-on techniques to manipulate and mobilize the musculoskeletal system, aiming to restore balance and function in the body. Osteopaths may also provide advice on lifestyle, exercise, and ergonomics.

    • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists employ various physical therapy modalities, exercises, and techniques to rehabilitate and manage musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. Their approach often includes exercise prescription, manual therapy, electrotherapy, and education on injury prevention and self-management.

  3. Scope of Practice:

    • Osteopathy: Osteopaths in Australia have a broader scope of practice compared to physiotherapists. They can assess and treat a wide range of conditions beyond musculoskeletal issues, taking into account the whole body's function and its relationship to health. Osteopaths may also diagnose and provide treatment for various non-musculoskeletal conditions.

    • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists primarily focus on physical rehabilitation, musculoskeletal assessment, and the management of movement-related disorders. They are experts in exercise prescription, functional rehabilitation, and physical therapy techniques. Physiotherapists often work with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that affect mobility and function.

  4. Regulation:

    • Osteopathy: Osteopaths in Australia are regulated healthcare professionals who must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They adhere to a national code of conduct and professional standards.

    • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists in Australia are also regulated and must be registered with AHPRA. They follow a code of conduct and professional standards specific to physiotherapy practice.

Ultimately, the choice between osteopathy and physiotherapy in Australia should be based on your specific healthcare needs and preferences. Both professions have qualified practitioners who can provide effective care for musculoskeletal and rehabilitation purposes, but the approach and focus may differ. Consulting with a practitioner directly and discussing your condition and treatment options is advisable to determine which profession aligns better with your healthcare goals.

Our treatments may be covered by your private health fund under extras. We offer HiCAPS and Medicare rebated treatment plans for eligible patients. Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and work cover/ insurance claims are also available.