​Osteopathy what is it?

Its not just about treating backs or something to do with just bones!

Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and hands on treatment in which a caring approach to the patient and attention to individual needs are of primary importance. In particular, it is concerned with the inter-relationship between the structure of the body – its muscles, ligaments, viscera and joints – and the manner in which the body functions. Osteopathy is a means of detecting and treating damaged parts of the body including those affecting the neuro-musculoskeletal systems.

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What is the difference between Physiotherapy and Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of medicine unlike physiotherapy which is a therapy.

Osteopathy has a small profile in NZ due to the small size of the profession approximately 350 practitioners versus 6000 physiotherapists. However Ostepathy presence and profile both publicly and within the medical profession is rapidly growing as more people discover and report the effectiveness of Osteopathic treatment.

Osteopaths trained in NZ have 5 years of "hands on training" becoming experts in palpation and manipulation specific to the treatment of pain and dysfunction concerning the musculo-skeletal system. Furthermore Osteopaths are trained to understand the pathology of disease and recognise undiagnosed pathology and refer where necessary  In contrast physiotherapist training is 4 years which covers a wider scope of practice to treat a large range of medical conditions, through use of therapeutic machines and exercise prescription with minimal "hands on training". Therefore generally an Osteopathic treatment involves a more hands on approach to healthcare in comparison to physiotherapy which has a greater focus on rehabilitation and exercise prescription. I uniquely bridge this gap having a strong back in sports and degree in Physical Education with a focus on exercise prescription/rehabilitation.
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​Consultation Process - initial visit 45mins, follow up visits 30mins

The consultation involves a detailed case history relating to the reason for your visit. Examinations are conducted using varied diagnostic procedures that test joint,spinal, muscle and nerve function.

​Please bring any X rays, MRI's, Imaging, medical reports related to your complaint, in addition names of any medications you may be taking.​e

As the consultation progresses, you will then normally be asked to remove some of your clothing so that a series of observations and biomechanical assessments can be made to attempt to identify points of weakness or excessive strain throughout the body. You should ask questions if you have any concerns or discomfort during treatment, and also tell you osteopath if you are not comfortable with certain forms of osteopathic treatment.

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ACC

If presenting with a recent injury an ACC claim can be processed for you - no referral needed.

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Treatment

Treatment integrates manual theory techniques that encourage normal joint function, and enhance fluid dynamics such as blood flow to significantly improve soft-tissue repair. Spinal and peripheral joints are mobilised to improve movement patterns and address faulty biomechanics. Specific exercises and stretches maybe integrated as part of the treatments in order to address muscular imbalances. With my training in Osteopathy and Bachelor of Physical Education focusing on exercise prescription treatments may include use of the on-sight gym to educate about specific exercises or for specific stretching programs.

 

Location​

​100 West End Rd Westmere. Plenty of free street parking. 15mins bus ride from CBD. Outerlink bus stop directly outside.

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