FAQ

What can I expect when I visit an Osteopath?

When you visit an Osteopath for the first time a full case history will be taken and you will be given an examination. You will be asked to perform a simple series of movements. The Osteopath will then use a hands-on approach, to identify any areas of weakness or excessive strain throughout your body. The Osteopath may need additional testing, including x-ray, scans or blood tests. This allows the Osteopath to develop a full diagnosis and suitable treatment plan for you.

How many treatments will I need?

Osteopathy is patient centered, which means treatment is geared to you as an individual (there is no standard number of treatment or 10 packs). Your Osteopath will give you an overview of your treatment plan and options during the initial consultation. For some acute conditions one or two treatments may be all that is necessary. Chronic conditions may need additional initial treatments and ongoing treatment sessions as well, to assist in the treatment of the presenting complaint.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

A formal referral from your GP is not necessary. Whilst patients may be referred to Osteopaths by Doctors, many patients self-refer. A GP referral is needed to claim the Medicare rebate. However, most health funds provide a rebate with osteopathic treatment and can be claimed at the Castle Hill Osteopathic Clinic leaving you to ONLY cover the gap left by the health fund.

Can I claim Osteopathy on my private health insurance?

Many private health insurance plans give benefits for Osteopathic treatment. Reimbursement depends on the insurer and the plan you have chosen. Contact the helpline of your insurance company to check the actual benefits and methods of claim for your individual policy. We offer the HICAPS system at the clinic for immediate payment of your claim.

How does Osteopathy work?

Osteopaths work with their hands using a wide variety of treatment techniques. These may include soft tissue techniques, rhythmic passive joint mobilization or the high velocity thrust techniques designed to improve mobility and the range of movement of a joint. Gentle release techniques are widely used, particularly when treating children or elderly patients. This allows the body to return to efficient normal function by maximizing blood, neural (nerve) and lymphatic flow.

Preventive care

Osteopaths are concerned not only with trying to alleviate patients' pain and other symptoms, but also with trying to help prevent problems from recurring. We regard treatment as a cooperative process between practitioner and patient and encourage patients to participate in preventive health programs. Preventive osteopathic care may include the prescription of exercise programs, coaching in ergonomic and postural care, and dietary and general lifestyle advice. Osteopaths work with a hands-on approach, and assist in giving you, the Patient, the ability to self manage your presenting complaint. In addition, where appropriate, osteopaths may refer patients to other practitioners to assist with preventive work.

What are the origins of Osteopathy?

From 1864 to 1874, following an outbreak of spinal meningitis, an American physician, Dr Andrew Taylor Still, developed medical theories that differed dramatically from the popular medical school of thought. He was outspoken in his criticism of the inappropriate use of drug therapy, and advocated the treatment of the individual rather than the disease in isolation.

Though ridiculed and derided by his peers, Dr Still persisted. The results of his radical (for that time) treatments, and the success and popularity with his patients resulted in the establishment of the American School of Osteopathy. In 1892 A T Still organized a school in Kirksville, Missouri, for the teaching of Osteopathy and it was from these small beginnings that Osteopathy was brought to Australia early in the 1900's.