What is an osteopath?

An osteopath is an allied health professional. They offer treatment for issues such as pain, injuries and movement problems.

Osteopaths look at your whole body to find out why you're in pain. This is also known as a holistic approach. They use hands-on techniques such as massage and dry needling. They also give advice on lifestyle and may suggest exercises to help you stay fit and strong.

Osteopaths are university-trained and nationally registered.

What conditions do osteopaths treat?

Osteopaths help treat many health problems. They help provide relief for different types of pain and injuries. They treat conditions such as:

• back pain
• neck pain
• headaches
• joint pain
• sports injuries

There are many reasons why you may want to see an osteopath:

• muscle issues — if your muscles hurt, or you have issues that make it hard to do daily activities
• workplace injury — if you were injured during work and are recovering
• posture advice — to get tips on how to improve your posture and physical strength
• child development — to check how your child is growing (osteopath especially look at their bones and motor skills)
• pregnancy support — to help your body get stronger before and after having a baby

What treatment techniques do osteopaths use?

An osteopath uses treatment techniques known as manual therapy. This means they use their hands to move and massage muscles and joints. This helps you move easier and can help reduce your pain.

Osteopaths use techniques such as:

• massage — rubbing and pressing muscles to relax them
• stretching — gently pulling and pushing muscles to encourage flexibility
• mobilisation — gently moving joints to help them work better
• manipulation — quickly moving a joint to improve how it moves
• dry needling — using thin needles to help relax muscles

Are osteopathic treatments effective?

Osteopathic treatments can help reduce pain. They can also help you move better. Their treatments work by looking at and treating the whole body. This helps improve blood flow and supports your body's natural healing processes.

There is good evidence that osteopathy works well for back and neck pain. More research is needed to understand if it helps with other health problems.

Do I need a referral for an osteopath?

You don't need a referral to see an osteopath.

• Booking an appointment:
  • You can book an appointment yourself with an osteopath.
  • You can also ask your doctor for a referral or recommendation.
  • Let your doctor know if you book yourself so they can coordinate your treatments.
• Insurance and costs:
  • Some osteopaths bulk bill. This means there's no out-of-pocket cost. Others may charge a gap fee.
  • Medicare provides rebates for osteopathic treatments under the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Program.
  • Your private health insurance may also cover some costs.
  • Always check with your provider about any extra costs.

What can I expect during an osteopathic session?

During a session your osteopath will ask questions about your health and seek to understand how your body systems work together, and to find out what's causing your pain.

Here's what to expect during an osteopathic session.

First consultation

The first consultation usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes. Your osteopath will look at how your body functions. They will also ask questions you about your:

• health problems
• medicines
• concerns
• lifestyle

Your osteopath will do a physical examination. You may need to remove some outer clothing for this. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. The physical examination may include checking:

• how you move
• your posture
• the health of your bones, muscles and joints by touching the painful area

Based on this information they will recommend treatment. They may also recommend you see another health professional. Sometimes no treatment happens during the first consultation.

Treatment plan

Your osteopath will form a treatment plan based on your needs. It may take several sessions to make this plan.

They often won't only treat the painful area. They may treat other related parts of your body too. For example, if your back hurts they may also treat your neck and legs. This is because the parts of your body are connected.

Any treatment will be gentle but may leave you feeling sore for the first 24 to 48 hours afterwards. Treatment may be painful in certain areas. Your osteopath will ask you to let them know if this happens.

Advice and follow-up

Your osteopath will guide you on what activities or exercises to do or avoid. They also give lifestyle tips to help you stay healthy.

You may need follow-up sessions so they can see how you're doing or to change their advice or treatment plan.

What should I ask my osteopath?

It's important to ask questions when you visit an osteopath. Asking questions can help you know what to expect and how treatment will help you.

Here are some questions you can ask:

• Can you explain what's causing my pain?
• How many sessions will I need and what will my treatment plan include?
• What techniques will you use during my treatment?
• Will the treatment hurt or make me sore afterwards?
• Are there any activities or exercises I should avoid or do at home?
• Will you talk to my doctor about my treatment?
• When should I come back for a follow-up session?

Where do I find a registered osteopath?

Osteopaths often work in private clinics. You can also find them in other places such as:

• public clinics
• rehabilitation settings
• aged care homes
• professional sports clubs
• research institutes

To find a registered osteopath, you can visit Osteopathy Australia. You can also ask your doctor for a recommendation or referral.

Resources and support

Osteopathy Australia has more information about osteopathy. It also provides information about access through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Are you interested in a career as an osteopath? Visit the Victoria University website for more information on careers in osteopathy.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.