Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

What does an Osteopath do?

An osteopath uses hands on techniques to treat the whole body including muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. An osteopath does not just treat bones. Osteopaths work holistically to help patients achieve pain reduction and improved range of motion. Some techniques an osteopath may use during a treatment with consent from the patient include soft tissue massage, joint articulation, muscle energy techniques, joint mobilisation techniques and stretching. Osteopaths can also give you advice on how to further manage your pain including advice on sleeping positions, desk ergonomic set up and exercises.



What is the difference between an Osteopath, Chiropractor and Physiotherapist?

This is a commonly asked yet tricky question is answer. Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists treat similar conditions but are based upon different philosophy’s, have different founders and may use different techniques and treatment approaches. It is hard to speck on behalf of other professions but Osteopaths focus on treating the whole body in a holistic approach, acknowledging that the body is a unit and no part functions independently.



What should I wear to my appointment?

Please wear loose and comfortable clothing that you can move around in. You may also like to bring a pair of shorts in you are seeking treatment for your lower limb. If you have any imaging reports that are relevant to your presenting complaint, please bring them along to your appointment.



Do I need a referral to see an Osteopath?

No you don’t. You can book in at any time without a GP referral.



Is osteopathy covered by Medicare?

Osteopathy is not covered by Medicare. Your GP may be able to make a Medicare care plan for you if you have chronic pain in which Medicare can cover a portion of your treatment.*
*Please see ’Rebates’ tab for more information.



Is Osteopathy covered by private health insurance?

If you have private health insurance with extras cover including osteopathy, your private health can pay for a portion of your treatment. Please check with your insurance provider to see if you have cover for osteopathy and you can ask them how much it will cover per treatment if you wish to know in advance.



Which areas do we service?

Body Osteopathy is located in Clifton hill and is easily accessible for those in nearby suburbs as we have car parking available at the front of our clinic and tram, bus and train stops just a short walk away. Because of this we can see patients from surrounding suburbs including Fitzroy North, Thornbury, Carlton, Alphington, Kew, Fairfield and Ivanhoe.