Our FAQs provide answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about osteopathy, osteopathic treatment and how you can prepare for your visit with a Registered Osteopath.
In New Zealand, osteopathic training consists of a 5-year Master of Osteopathy program. Osteopathy standards are set by a regulating authority, the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand. Practicing osteopaths are required to complete a set amount of continuing professional development each year.
Osteopathy is a holistic form of manual therapy that aims to promote the body’s natural healing abilities.
Osteopathy can be very helpful in addressing many conditions, including:
A referral by a doctor or another health care professional is not required to see an Osteopath. You can contact an Osteopath directly to make an appointment.
Your osteopath can assist you with the necessary paperwork, and lodge a claim on your behalf.
Osteopathy treatments are gentle and should not cause high levels of discomfort. Hands-on treatment of painful or tender areas may be necessary, and in these cases your osteopath will take care to make you as comfortable as possible. Some people experience some soreness for a day or two after a treatment as their body reacts and adjusts to the treatment. If this persists or increases, contact your osteopath to discuss it.
Treatment at Grey Lynn Osteopathy varies. Please see our rates. Private health insurance may reimburse your fees, and any treatment for an ACC covered injury will be charged a surcharge.
For your first osteopathy appointment, please bring any x-rays, test results or other relevant documentation with you.
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy. Hands-on treatment usually involves moving various parts of your body. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. Shorts or loose stretchy pants are ideal during the assessment and treatment. Your comfort is very important to us.
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to treatment and can complement other therapeutic approaches like acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, massage, physiotherapy, etc.
Referrals to other health care practitioners like naturopathic doctors, MDs or psychologists may also be made by osteopaths.
In your first session, you can expect to review your health history with your osteopath. At this time, you’ll have an opportunity to ask questions regarding osteopathy treatments, protocols, processes and more.
We’ll discuss your current condition, your treatment goals, and perform a thorough assessment. This may include accessing your posture, watching how you move and performing tests to to determine the best treatment for your injury or cause of pain. We make every effort to provide treatment during your initial appointment if it’s safe to do so.
For subsequent appointments, treatment begins after a quick reassessment to determine any changes in your condition from the initial visit. Subsequent visits will be focused on treatment.
The number of treatments you need will depend on the length of time you have had your complaint, the severity of your injury, and your overall health. Some conditions respond quickly and others take more time. Please feel free to ask your practitioner about this when we talk in person.
