Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Osteopathy is a holistic mode of manual medicine that focuses on the interrelated relationship of structure and function and is best known as an effective treatment for musculo-skeletal complaints.
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions that we get regarding osteopathy and massage.
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What is an Osteopath?
An Osteopath treats people from all walks of life for a wide variety of aches, injuries and pains. Osteopaths are Government Registered practitioners of manual medicine. All Osteopaths undergo five years full-time university study to qualify for registration as an Osteopathic practitioner.
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a holistic mode of manual medicine that focuses on the interrelated relationship of structure and function and is best known as an effective treatment for musculo-skeletal complaints.
Osteopathic health care focuses on treatment of the physical body, the joints, muscles, internal organs, nerves, circulation and connective tissue with ‘hands on’ techniques, such as stretching and massage for general treatment of the soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments) along with mobilization of specific joints and soft tissues.
What can I expect when I visit an Osteopath?
The first visit to an Osteopath will be similar to an initial consultation to a GP. A complete medical history is taken as well as questions involving diet, lifestyle and any details of past accidents or trauma.
The patient may be asked to perform some simple movements and remove some outer clothing (a gown will be supplied). This is so the Osteopath can observe patients movement and mobility. A treatment generally will take about 30 minutes to complete, after which the Osteopath will be able to offer a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. If the diagnosis is one that requires further investigation the patient may be referred for x-rays or to another specialist area. Osteopaths treat in conjunction with a GP, dentist, podiatrists or other health care professionals.
All treatment programs are highly individualized and depend on the patient’s current condition, history and ability to adapt to change. Most simple problems often require only 3-4 treatments.
Comparing Tendonosis to Tendonitis
| Comparing Tendonosis To Tendonitis | |
| Tendonosis | Tendonitis |
| Very Common | Very Rare |
| Requires months/years to heal | Requires only 14 days to heal |
| Treated with therapeutic exercise | Aggravated by exercise |
| Irritated by NSAIDs | Helped by NSAIDs |
| Shows up Black on MRI (T1) | Shows up White on an MRI |
| Degenerative | Inflammatory |
| Usually feels better after proper training | Hurts to move at all |
| Responds to Electric stimulation and heat | Irritated by heat |
| Irritated by ice and rest | Loves rest and ice |
| Helped by friction massage | No friction massage |
| Most not helped by surgery | No help from surgery |
| Usually cool to touch | Usually warm to touch |
Do I need a Referral?
No. It is not necessary to have a Doctors referral to consult an Osteopath. However it is essential for patients with chronic conditions, Department of Veteran Affairs or patients on WorkCover to provide a referral under the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care scheme.
Is there any Health Cover Recognition?
All Osteopaths at PracPro Practioner Health Professionals are registered practitioners with their respective professional associations. Osteopathy is covered by most private health funds and patients referred by their GP under the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care scheme may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. Osteopaths are registered providers for workers’ compensation schemes, motor accident insurers and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs – please ask our friendly reception staff about referral requirements for these services
How much does it cost?
Standard Consultation Pricing
Initial Consultation: $110
Standard Consultation: $100
Concession Pricing
Initial Consultation: $105
Standard Consultation: $95
