What is Osteopathy? Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine which recognises the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit. Using skilled evaluation, diagnosis and a wide range of hands-on techniques, osteopaths can identify dysfunction in your body. Osteopathic treatment uses techniques such as stretching and massage for general treatment of the soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments)along with mobilisation of specific joints and soft tissues. In Australia, osteopaths are government registered practitioners who complete a minimum of fives year's univerity training in anatomy,physioligy, pathology, general medical diagnosis and ostepathic techniques. Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners and are trained to recognise conditions which require medical referral. They are also trained to perform standard medical examinations of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems. Osteopathy is covered by most private health funds and the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care scheme. Osteopaths are registered providers for workers' compensation schemes and motor accident insurers. |
Who Can Benefit? Anyone from the newborn to the elderly can benefit from osteopathic treatment as all techniques are safe, gentle and highly effective. As we are primary health care practitioners, it is not necessary to get a referral letter from your GP unless you are seeking treatment under Medicare, workers compensation or a motor vehicle accident claim, which will require pre-approval prior to treatment. What Conditions Do Osteopaths Treat? Osteopathic focus is on treating the whole person. Whilst osteopaths examine and treat many musculoskeletal conditions, they also consider, and may be of assistance with psychological, nutritional, exercise, and lifestyle issues. Accumulation of stress in the body When we experience physical or emotional stresses our body tissues tend to tighten up. The body may have been able to adapt to these effects at the time, but a lasting strain often remains. Any tensions which remain held in the body can restrict its free movement. Gradually the body may find it more and more difficult to cope with accumulated stresses and symptoms may develop. Osteopaths focus on the whole person from structural problems to lifestyle issues. |
Musculoskeletal
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Womens and Baby Health
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Respiratory
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Osteopathy Board of Australia 