Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients’ general health.
Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery. Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal, and osteopathic care focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness.
Osteopaths’ patient-centred approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient’s full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances. This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.
In general, the treatments take about half an hour. Your first appointment is usually slightly longer to allow for a full case history to be taken.
What training do Osteopaths have?
Undergraduate students follow a four or five-year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy – a BSc(Hons), BOst or BOstMed – or a masters degree in osteopathy (MOst). Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating.
Osteopaths are required to update their training throughout their working lives. They must complete at least 25 hours of Continuing Professional Development per year.
What can I expect on my first visit?
At the first consultation, the osteopath will compile a full case history of your symptoms, as well as asking for information about your lifestyle. The osteopath may also observe you making some simple movements to help them make a diagnosis. You may sometimes be asked to remove some clothing near the area of the body to be examined.
Osteopaths are trained to examine areas of the body using a highly-developed sense of touch, known as palpation, to determine conditions and identify the body’s points of weakness or excessive strain. Osteopathy is a ‘package’ of care that includes skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques, reinforced by guidance on diet and exercise.
The osteopath will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment plan, estimating the likely number of sessions needed to treat your condition effectively. If the osteopath thinks that your condition is unlikely to respond to osteopathic treatment, you will be advised about how to seek further care. Osteopaths are skilled in diagnostic techniques and trained to identify when a patient needs to be referred to a GP.
Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath?
No. Most patients ‘self refer’ to an osteopath for treatment. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed, so that their medical records are current and complete and the patient receives the best possible care from both healthcare practitioners.
Can I see an osteopath through ACC?
Yes, we can take care of the paperwork for you. You can also transfer your ACC treatment from another healthcare provider.
Does ACC cover Acupuncture?
Yes. At Whole Body Osteopathy acupuncture therapy is covered if the ACC claim is the result of an accident.
Is Acupuncture painful?
Acupuncture needles are very fine and almost hair-like, unlike hypodermic needles which are thick and hollow. Patients generally do not feel the painful pricking sensation associated with an injection, blood sample or other medical procedure. Only sterile, disposable needles are used.
What do osteopaths treat?
Osteopathy focuses on the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders without the use of drugs or surgery. Commonly treated conditions include back and neck pain, postural problems, sporting injuries, muscle and joint deterioration, restricted mobility and occupational ill-health.
Can I claim on my private medical insurance?
We are a Southern Cross ‘Easy Claims’ Provider so it’s easy to be reimbursed for treatment but you should check in advance with your insurance company before seeking osteopathic treatment, in order to confirm the available level of cover includes osteopathic treatment.
How do I know the treatment is safe?
The Osteopathic Council of New Zealand registers osteopaths and prescribes the qualifications and standards of ongoing competence required for osteopathic practice to protect the health and safety of members of the New Zealand public. It does this by providing mechanisms to ensure that health practitioners are competent and fit to practice their professions. Only osteopaths who are registered with the Osteopathic Council, and hold a current practising certificate, may use the title of osteopath and legally practice osteopathy in New Zealand.
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