Osteopathy Healthcare Week 2016 is coming 17-23 April
Statistically Osteopathy is one of the fastest growing health professions in Australia.
Osteopathy is a form of manual healthcare which recognises the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit.
Osteopaths believe that the body can heal itself if the right combination of manual techniques such as massage and the manipulation of muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons are used to bring the body back to a cohesive whole.
Osteopaths may treat a wide range of patients, from children to the elderly.
Osteopaths take a case history of each patient. They observe how the patient’s body functions when they sit, stand and lie down, as well as physically examine the patient by using palpation to determine which areas of the body are healthy and which are in pain.
Osteopaths usually treat patients who complain of headaches, bad backs, neck pain, sciatica, repetitive strain injuries (RSI), asthma, joint pain, menstrual problems and pregnancy problems. They can assist pregnant women by helping to reduce back pain as well as readying the body for childbirth.
An Osteopath may be able to treat chronic fatigue as well as arthritis and sports injuries. There are also many other conditions that may benefit from treatment by an Osteopath. Osteopaths treat not only the specific problem but also provide lifestyle advice on diet, exercise, stress reduction, posture and breathing. Osteopaths encourage individuals to proactively prevent injuries and ailments, which in the long term leads to better overall health and less time and money spent on treatment.
The Osteopath will design a treatment program specifically for you, based on your functional ability levels, aims and goals. Progress is regularly reviewed and treatment programs are modified to help you achieve the best outcome possible.
Osteopaths can be seen directly without a referral or in addition to the care provided by a GP. It is acknowledged by all major health funds as well as DVA, Workcover, Medicare and attracts a rebate with a GP referral for chronic pain and conditions.