FAQs
Osteopathy
When you come in for an Osteopathic appointment we will first sit down with you and listen to what has brought you in to see us. We want to put together a solid picture of your symptoms and possible causes, so we may ask several questions to help us understand what’s happening with your body and why. If it’s your first time seeing us, we will also go through your medical history so that we can make informed decisions with you for your health.
After we discuss your case, we will run through a physical examination. This can involve active movements, orthopaedic testing, skilled-palpation, and testing your various body systems (e.g. neurological testing, listening to your lungs, or taking your blood pressure). Because Osteopaths look at your body as a connected unit, your Osteopath will look at the area that is giving you symptoms, as well as any other areas that might be contributing to your complaint. This is done so that your Osteopath can get a full picture of what’s happening with your body, more accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and better formulate a personalised treatment plan for you.
Osteopathic treatment is completely hands-on, and the kind of treatment you receive will depend on what you need and what you respond best to. Osteopaths are the ‘jack-of-all-trades’ of manual therapy, with a wide repertoire of hands-on techniques to help your body function as well as possible.
What should I expect?
Are Osteopaths registered health professionals?
Yes. Osteopaths in New Zealand are registered and regulated through the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand, and come under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance (HPCA) Act (2003). This means that Osteopaths in Aotearoa have completed a high level of training (usually 4-5years) at a vetted training provider, have a Scope of Practice and Code of Conduct, must engage in Continued Professional Development every year, and must hold an Annual Practicing Certificate in order to legally practice as an Osteopath in New Zealand.
Is what we discuss confidential?
Yes. As registered healthcare practitioners, Osteopaths are bound by patient-practitioner confidentiality. This means that what you discuss with your Osteopath will remain confidential, and you can feel safe and confident in maintaining your privacy.
There may be times where it would be appropriate for your Osteopath to discuss your case with another health professional, such as your GP, a specialist, or a midwife. If this happens, or another situation arises where we are required to break confidentiality (such as concerns over your safety), then we will discuss this with you.
Do I need to see my GP for a referral or an ACC claim first?
No, you don’t need a special referral to come and see an Osteopath. We are also ACC Registered Treatment Providers, which means that we are able to submit ACC claims for you without a prior referral (and you can access ACC-subsidised Osteopathy treatment with us if you have an accepted claim.)
What should I wear to my appointment?
We recommend wearing one layer of clothing that allows for reasonable movement.
For example, traditional (non-stretch) denim is not recommended, whilst stretchy or loose material generally allows for good movement assessment and treatment.
I am coming with my baby, is there a space for nursing and nappy changing?
Our clinic room is a safe space, and we encourage you to look after your baby’s needs if they need to be fed or changed. Babies can find treatment a little easier if they are fed and have a clean nappy, but we know how unpredictable newborns and older babies can be, so we set aside a bit of extra time for the appointment in case they need to have a break to have their needs met.
Do you have another question? We have a handy contact form you can use to get in touch.
