Information Centre

We gathered the answers to some popular questions below.
If you can’t find your question below feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.

Does something need to be wrong with me to come to the clinic?

Absolutely not! Even if you are after a general treatment or advice that is completely fine.

What is Joint Manipulation?

Joint manipulation is a chemical release of gas within a joint. It is typically the ‘crack’ sound that you may hear when you adjust your knuckles or ankles. It is important to note that this process does NOT involve the ‘putting of bones back into place’ or physical movement of any joint surface, and that the sound is simply a gas bubble forming within your joint, also known as, tribonucleation. This treatment is only administered if it is absolutely safe and if it will assist your complaint.

What can I expect in a session?

A session will typically start with a short history outlining your medical past. Information gathered from the history will assist with areas being assessed and treated. There will then be a short examination to assess areas of mobility, strength and overall range of motion. Following this, you can expect a treatment consisting of techniques such as; soft tissue massage, articulation, joint mobilisation and manipulation and stretching. Finally, every movement will be re-assessed to identify if there have been any improvements, and advice as well as rehabilitation exercises will be provided, as well as a plan on if a follow-up appointment is needed and when you can expect to improve.

Do I need a GP Referral?

No you do not. We do accept those on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan, but if you do not have this you are still more than welcome to book an appointment with us.

What should I wear to appointments?

Wear whatever makes you comfortable! Generally shorts and T-shirt/singlet are preferred or loose fitting clothing as it is less likely to restrict any technique administered.

What qualifications do Osteopaths’ have?

Osteopaths complete a Bachelor and Masters Degree that can take between 4.5-5years in total. All osteopaths have extensive knowledge of: anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, radiology, pathology, osteopathic techniques and general medical diagnoses.

Osteopaths are qualified to provide advice on certain lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your pain e.g. work and home ergonomics, as well as rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions for a better you.

All Australian Osteopaths are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

How long are appointments?

Initial Consult: 45 minutes duration
Standard Return Consult: 30 minutes duration
Extended Return Consult: 45 minutes duration (Recommended for more than one area of treatment, complex complaints and/or exercise rehabilitation revision)

How much does an appointment cost?

Initial Consult: $160, Concession*: $150
Standard Return Consult: $115, Concession*: $105
Extended Return Consult: $155, Concession*: $145

Chronic Disease Management Plan holders (without concession):
Initial Consult: $99.65 out of pocket fee with $60.35 rebate
Return Consult: $54.65 out of pocket fee with $60.35 rebate
Extended Return Consult: $94.65 out of pocket fee with $60.35 rebate

*Concession rates for: Pensioners, Students and Concession Card Holders only

Can I use my private health insurance?

Absolutely! We accept all health funds. Just ensure that you have extras covering specifically for ‘osteopathy’ with your health insurer and they will be able to tell you exactly how much is covered as the rebate is dependent on each provider and level of coverage.

How long will it take for my pain to be resolved?

Unfortunately there is no concrete answer. Each condition varies dependent on each person who has that condition and can depend on many factors such as age and lifestyle.
There are general healing times however, we will only be able to give you a more accurate answer after taking a thorough medical history and assessing your overall function.

What we can confirm is that you are likely to expect an improvement in your symptoms between 1-4 sessions

Are there side effects to treatment?

It is important to recognise that Osteopathy is a treatment modality aimed at helping an ailment in your body.

If it is a chronic complaint or you are not familiar with osteopathic treatment, you may be subject to minor side effects that may be present for 24-72 hours following treatment (these effects are very common amongst most manual therapy treatments).

Common side effects directly following manual therapy may include:

  • Fatigue/Drowsiness
  • Headaches
  • Increased pain/tenderness in area
  • Redness