Why should I see an Osteopath?
Most people come to an osteopath because they are experiencing pain or discomfort and they are unable to perform or work at their accustomed level . Because osteopathy treats the entire whole body and is suitable for people of all ages, there are many reasons why osteopathic treatment may be appropriate.
Stress, anxiety and fatigue
Trauma (both past and present) and accidents
Concentration and learning difficulties
Chronic illnesses, chest infections, recurrent ear infections and immune problems
Sports injuries and rehabilitation
Pregnancy and post natal problems duration
Unsettled babies
Developmental difficulties with children
Migraines/headaches
Chronic pain management and repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Neck, back and joint pain
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments that you will need will vary with each individual case. Your osteopath will be able to discuss with you a treatment plan and give an estimate of how many treatments you will be requiring during your first consultation.
How long will a treatment last for?
The first initial consultation will take around 45-60 minutes to complete, during which time your osteopath will take a full medical history. Your osteopath will be able to offer a diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan. Most further treatments will take 30 -40 minutes.
How do babies benefit from Osteopathic treatment?
Often the forces involved during contractions can produce strains in the skull of a newborn. The bones in the cranium will mould and slide over one another to accommodate the forces involved in labour. The resulting strains can cause discomfort and feeding difficulties, among other issues. Cranial osteopathy is a gentle and very effective method to treat newborns. Osteopaths commonly help babies with such symptoms as constant crying, feeding difficulties, colic or reflux, neck stiffness and flat head syndrome.
What are the benefits for children and teenagers from osteopathic treatment?
Every child is different and your osteopath will assess your child individually and work with you to plan the best way forward. This will involve a thorough history and examination and your osteopath will be able to provide a referral to another health professional if required. Treatment itself is very gentle as your osteopath helps ease the strains found. Children and teenagers may be helped if they suffer from headaches, anxiety, neck or back pain, recurrent ear infections, asthma, behavioural or learning difficulties or postural problems.
What is cranial osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy is a very subtle form of treatment, being a technique which can be used in all areas of the body. The manner in which it works is complex, but predominantly involves assessing and adjusting the tensions within the body to bring about productive and positive change. Cranial treatment is guided by the patient’s own body. Because of this, it is a gentle yet extremely effective approach which can be used in a wide range of conditions for people of all ages, from birth to seniors.
Do I need a referral from my gp?
How does ACC work?
Our osteopaths are ACC registered. If you have an injury that is a result of an accident, then you are entitled to subsidised osteopathic treatment. Please discuss whether your particular injury is eligible for ACC subsidy with your osteopath.
What training do osteopaths have?
The osteopaths here have received their qualifications in Australia and France. An osteopath is someone that has completed a five year full time osteopathic program or its equivalent. Once qualified and registered, the osteopath is a competent, skilled primary health care practitioner with a thorough knowledge of anatomy , physiology, biomechanics and medical sciences.
How does osteopathy work for seniors?
Your osteopath can;
provide safe, gentle and effective treatment to keep your body balanced and mobile.
suggest home exercises to keep you stronger and more flexible.
give guidance on other exercises such as walking, tai chi, yoga or gym exercises to aid your circulation, balance and maintain muscle tone.
advise on gentle stretches to maintain joint and muscle flexibility and help prevent injuries.
offer extremely helpful treatment for recovery after surgery.