What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a complementary hands-on manual therapy which focuses on treating a range of musculoskeletal problems arising from muscles, joints, ligaments and connective tissue.

Osteopaths endeavor to not only treat the symptoms of the problem but aim to find the underlying cause and prevent the condition from reoccurring.

Osteopathy places emphasis on the relationship between the body’s structure and function and aims to optimize its ability to heal itself.

Why see an Osteopath?

Osteopathy is best known for the treatment of a wide variety of musculoskeletal problems:

  • Back and neck pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Sports injuries
  • Muscle strains and tendinitis
  • Shoulder, wrist and elbow pain
  • Hip, knee and ankle pain
  • Work-related injuries
  • Postural problems
  • Stress and tension
  • Pregnancy related pain
  • Arthritis

In conjunction with other medical treatments, Osteopathy can be useful in alleviating the symptoms of:

  • Gynecological problems, e.g., period pain
  • Asthma
  • Digestive problems

Osteopaths can treat people of all ages from newborns, infants and children to adults and the elderly.

What training do Osteopaths have?

In Australia, Osteopaths are statutorily registered practitioners and complete a five year, full-time university degree. They are trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology and general medical diagnosis in addition to Osteopathic technique.

What to expect from an Osteopathic treatment?

You will receive a thorough case history on your first consultation to establish a good understanding of your whole body’s health. This will be followed by an examination of the body to help form a diagnosis for your injury. Treatment can include a mixture of the following: massage and stretching techniques, articulation techniques, muscle energy techniques, exercise prescription, dry needling and manipulation.

Osteopathic treatments are adapted to the requirements and preferences of the individual patient.

Do I need a referral?

The only time you need a referral is if you wish to consult an Osteopath under Medicare's Enhanced Primary Care Program. If you suffer from chronic pain, your GP can refer you to an Osteopath for up to five treatments each year.

Health fund

Osteopathic treatment is covered under the ancillary or extras cover of most major health insurers. Hawthorn Osteopathic Clinic is able to offer “on the spot” rebates via HICAPS. The rebate varies depending on your health insurer and level of cover so check the details of your policy.