FAQs
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, you can make an appointment directly without a referral. If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition and require complex care you may be eligible for Chronic Disease Management (CDM) assistance. The GP must complete a special referral form (PDF, 201kb) to refer you to an osteopath for treatment.
What do I need to bring during my appointment?
Bring along any X-rays, scans or test results that you may have.
Am I required to arrive early for my first appointment?
Yes, please arrive early for your first appointment as you will need to fill out initial paperwork.
Why am I asked to complete paperwork?
An osteopath will need to record your medical history to assist in discussing treatment options.
Under the law, an osteopath needs to obtain your approval to treat you, so you may be asked to sign an ‘informed consent’ form.
What should I wear during my appointment?
It’s important that you feel comfortable on the day of your appointment. Wear a comfortable shirt and loose pants or bring a pair of shorts to change into.
Do I have to remove my clothes during treatment?
Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear. If this is the case, you will be offered a medical gown to wear during treatment.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.
What happens during my first consultation?
Your osteopath will ask about your problem and symptoms. This will include your medical history, any medications you are taking or other factors that may not appear to be directly related to your problem.
Your osteopath will advise you if they can treat you or you need to be referred.
Your osteopath will conduct an examination and clinical tests. These include diagnostic, orthopaedic or neurological tests, postural assessments and activities or exercises, which will help determine how best to manage your condition.
The examination may include passive and active movements. The osteopath may lift your arms or legs and you may be asked to bend over or stand in your underwear. Be sure to wear comfortable, flexible and appropriate underwear.
Osteopathy takes a whole of body approach to treatment. Your osteopath may look at the area that is troubling you as well as other parts of your body. For example if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back.
Your osteopath may also provide education and advice to help you manage your condition between treatments. This may include giving you exercises to do at home or work.
What if my condition changes over time?
It is important you tell your osteopath if your medical condition changes over time. This includes any new injuries or change of medications.
Is osteopathic treatment painful?
Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and should not cause undue discomfort. If your injuries do require hands-on treatment of painful and tender areas, your osteopath will aim to make you as comfortable as possible.
There are techniques which may cause some short term discomfort or pain.
You may experience mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, similar to that felt after mild exercise. If this soreness persists or increases significantly, call your osteopath to discuss your concerns.
How long will my appointment take?
Follow-up treatments are usually shorter. Please check appointment length when booking.
How many appointments will I need?
Your osteopath will discuss this with you.