FAQ's - Answers to Common Questions about Osteopathic Care

Australian Osteopaths have undertaken 5 years of University education. Including training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general healthcare diagnosis, and osteopathic techniques. Obtaining a Bachelor of Health Science and a Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy).

All Osteopaths are registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Agency (AHPRA) under the Osteopathic board of Australia.

Osteopathy is a ‘hands on’ treatment, so you may be asked to remove certain items of clothing (e.g. top/pants) depending on the location of your presenting complaint.

We recommended you wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move around in.

Yes, please bring any x-rays, ultrasounds, CT and MRI scans and reports or any other test results that you feel are relevant to your presenting complaint for your initial consultation.

During the first consultation your osteopath will take a detailed case history including past medical history. This will be followed by a physical examination (including orthopedic and neurological testing if required) which involves assessing joint range of motion, postural analysis and palpation of the muscular system.

Your osteopath regards the body as a unit; therefore the examination may involve adjacent areas that may also be impacting on your presenting problem. Once your osteopath has finished the physical examination he/she will discuss their diagnosis with you and outline a treatment plan.

Treatment may include soft tissue massage and myofasical release, gentle joint manipulation and articulation and stretching.

At the conclusion of your treatment your osteopath may also provide you with postural, stretching, exercise or dietary advice to improve your body’s health and function.

No, you don’t need a referral. Osteopaths are primary health care practitioners, which means you can make an appointment directly.

Osteopathic treatment is not covered by Medicare. Patients that have an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan from their GP will be required to pay for their consultation upfront we will then process your Medicare rebate which will be returned to your linked bank account. This is managed and provided by your GP. Consult your osteopath or GP for further information.

Patients with ‘extras’ cover as part of their private health insurance are eligible to claim a portion of their treatment costs on the spot with use of the HICAPS facility and only pay the remaining gap.

Please note, should a 3rd party payment be rejected in any manner, the patient is responsible for any and all payments of accounts at West Osteopathy.