Question 1

What is an Osteopath?

Accepted Answer

An osteopath is a healthcare professional that diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal conditions. Osteopaths use a holistic approach to healthcare and believe that the body has the ability to heal itself. They use manual techniques such as soft tissue, manipulation, mobilization and stretching to help alleviate pain and improve the function of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes the bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Osteopaths are trained to work with people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and can help with a wide range of conditions.

Question 2

When do people commonly see Osteopaths? What techniques do Osteopaths use?

Accepted Answer

Osteopath's consult and treat people presenting with complaints relating to: 
	- Chronic and Acute conditions
	- Back pain (Lower, Middle and Upper)
	- Neck pain
	- Headaches & Migraines
	- Jaw problems
	- Shoulder injuries
	- Postural issues
	- Knee, Foot & Ankle pain
	- Arthritic pain
	- Sciatica
	- Whiplash
	- Sporting injuries
	- TMJ pain
	- Tendon pain
	- Hip and pelvic pain
	- Elbow and wrist pain
	- Sports injuries
	- Workplace sprains and strains
	- General tight and/or restricted muscles

Osteopaths have a wide variety of techniques they use to treat various injuries. These include: 
Soft Tissue Massage: A manual therapy technique that involves the application of pressure and movement to the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is used to help relieve pain, improve range of motion, and increase circulation.
HVLA Manipulation: High velocity, low amplitude adjustments to encourage movement at joints. This manual therapy technique involves quick, forceful movements applied to joints to improve mobility and range of motion.
Muscle Energy Technique: A manual therapy technique that involves asking the patient to contract a muscles against resistance, followed by passive stretching of the muscle. It is used to help lengthen shortened muscles and improve range of motion.
Counterstrain: A manual therapy technique that involves placing muscles at a point of ease to help release tension. This is done by applying gentle pressure to tender points and holding the position until the tension in the muscle decreases.
Articulation: A manual therapy technique that involves passively moving joints to encourage movement. This can help improve joint mobility and range of motion. 
Trigger Point Therapy: A manual therapy technique that involves applying pressure to an area that refers pain to other parts of the body. This is used to help relieve pain and improve range of motion.
Functional Techniques: A manual therapy technique that involves gently moving joints to place them in a state of ease. This can help improve joint mobility, stability, and overall function.
Dry Needling & Cupping: Dry needling involves the insertion of fine acupuncture needles into muscle tissue to help relieve pain and improve function. Cupping involves the use of suction cups to apply pressure and release tension in the muscles.
Myofascial Technique: A manual therapy technique that involves working with the connective tissue in the body, known as fascia, to help improve mobility, relieve pain, and reduce tension.
Rock-taping: A technique that involves applying specially designed tape to the skin to provide support and alleviate pain.
Stretching: A physical therapy technique that involves the passive or active movement of a muscle or group of muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Exercise Prescription: A physical therapy technique that involves the prescription of specific exercises to help improve strength, flexibility, stability, and overall function.
Strength and Conditioning: A physical therapy technique that involves the use of strength training exercises to help improve muscle strength and endurance.
Ergonomic and postural advice: Physical therapy technique that involves educating the patient on proper posture, body mechanics, and ergonomics to help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent future injuries.

Question 3

What are the benefits of Osteopathy?

Accepted Answer

A general improvement to your overall health and sense of wellness
A reduction in stress levels and muscle tension
Improved function
Reduced pain
Improved flexibility
Improved blood flow/circulation
Improved mobility
Manage chronic pain
Improved immune function
Improved range of motion
Holistic approach/treatment

Question 4

What is the difference between Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists?

Accepted Answer

Osteopaths, chiropractors, and physiotherapists are all healthcare professionals who work to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions and improve overall physical function. However, there are some differences in their training, scope of practice, and approach to patient care.
Osteopaths: Osteopaths are manual therapists who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions through hands-on techniques. They take a holistic approach to patient care and consider the interplay between the structure and function of the body, as well as the impact of lifestyle and environment on health.
Chiropractors: Chiropractors diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those affecting the spine. They use manual manipulation techniques to adjust the spine. 
Physiotherapists: Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat a variety of techniques, including manual therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation, to help their patients achieve their goals.
In summary, while there are some similarities between these professions, each has its own unique approach to patient care and treatment.

Question 5

How qualified is an Osteopath?

Accepted Answer

In Australia, osteopaths are required to have a minimum of five years of university education in osteopathy. This education includes training in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as hands-on techniques such as manual therapy and exercise prescription. Upon completion of their education, osteopaths must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and maintain their registration through ongoing professional development and continuing education.
Osteopaths in Australia are considered highly qualified healthcare professionals and are authorized to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions.

Question 6

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not require a referral! 
If you have however been provided with a referral from your GP under the Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) / Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program, please email your referral to: admin@bondosteopathy.com.au. Conversely, if you cannot email it, please bring a copy along to your appointment, so therefore you can give it to your Osteopath!

Question 7

What happens at my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

During your initial consultation with a practitioner at Bond Osteopathy, your Osteopath will discuss your presenting complaint and subsequently take a medical history. From there's, a series of examinations will take place to aid in the Osteopath's diagnosis of which will be communicated to you through outlining the underpinnings of the prognosis. Osteopathic treatment will then take place encompassing a varying degree of techniques and then, concluded with some recommendations and management advice.

Question 8

What shall I wear and what should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable clothes are best! 
Depending on the complaint, in some instances your osteopath may ask you to remove items of clothing to help them have a better understanding of how your body moves and functions which helps identify exactly what's going on. Nonetheless, your osteopath will ensure you're comfortable throughout your experience.

Please bring along any Scans (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, CAT etc) reports and blood test results you may have regarding the relevant concern.

Question 9

Is Osteopathy covered by private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most Private Health Funds cover Osteopathy in their 'Extras'. To find out if you are covered for, please contact your insurance company directly. The level of rebate you receive will depend on your health fund policy. At Bond Osteopathy, we offer HICAPS which allows you to claim on the spot by swiping your private health insurance card and only paying the gap! In the event that you are unable to claim on the day, a receipt will be issued to you and you can claim back with your private health insurance.

Question 10

Is Osteopathic treatment covered by Medicare?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible for a Medicare rebate, patients must be referred to us under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC)/Chronic Disease Management plan by their GP. This referral is typically for patients with multiple chronic conditions. Check your eligibility with your GP.

On the day of service, full payment for the consultation must be made at the reception. After payment, a $56 Medicare rebate will be reimbursed into a savings or cheque account via EFTPOS within 24 hours. If a patient does not have an EFTPOS card with a savings or cheque account, they will receive a receipt to take to Medicare for rebate.

For example: Maria has an EPC plan for 5 visits with the osteopath. At the consultation, she provides her EPC form and an EFTPOS card with a savings or cheque account to pay the $95 fee. The Medicare card is swiped on the HICAPS/EFT machine and the $56 rebate is approved and reimbursed into Maira's account within 24 hours. If Maria had a credit card or cash, the receptionist would provide a receipt for her to claim her rebate at a Medicare branch, online or on the app.

For more information, please speak to any staff member.

Question 11

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Accepted Answer

As a busy practice, with a waitlist of people hoping to get seen ASAP, we require that all cancellations and reschedules are made by phone, with no less than 12hrs notice. If you cancel your appointment with less than 12hrs notice or if you do not attend your appointment you may be charged with  either full consultation fee, or a $25 fee.

We do understand that LIFE happens. So if you feel sick, or something happens outside of your control, we will not charge you the cancellation fee. But we would appreciate as much notice as possible. This gives us the chance to help other patients with their health and wellbeing goals. We appreciate your help and understanding!

Frequently asked questions

What is an Osteopath?

When do people commonly see Osteopaths? What techniques do Osteopaths use?

What are the benefits of Osteopathy?

What is the difference between Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists?

How qualified is an Osteopath?

Do I need a referral?

What happens at my first consultation?

What shall I wear and what should I bring with me?

Is Osteopathy covered by private health insurance?

Is Osteopathic treatment covered by Medicare?

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

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