OSTEOPATHY
Osteopathy
Osteopaths help people who are in pain or who want to move better. Osteopaths focus on the body as a whole, looking at how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit.
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Osteopaths use a range of approaches to enhance function, including manual therapy (mobilisation, stretching, massage and manipulation), dry needling, lifestyle advice and patient education.
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In Australia, all osteopaths complete minimum 4-5 years accredited university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic techniques. They are also trained to perform standard examinations of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems.
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What is Osteopathy?
What might an Osteopath help you with?
Osteopaths can help with a range of pain or movement issues including problems with muscles or joints of the limbs and spine, sports injuries, and headaches. Specialisations include gentle treatment of babies and children, pre- and post-natal conditions, exercise based rehabilitation and management of neurological disorders.
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You don't have to have pain to visit an Osteopath, they can also help with motivation to guide healthy lifestyle changes and maintain a mobile body!
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What should I bring/wear to my first appointment?Bring any relevant scans, X-rays, CT's or MRI, or any other Medical information that you think may be important. Make sure you wear loose comfortable clothes that will allow you to move around easily.
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Do I need a referral to see a Physiotherapist?No. You can make an appointment directly without a referral. A referral is generally not required to see an physiotherapist as a private patient. All WorkSafe and TAC clients can make an appointment without a referral, however, they must have an approved claim number for entitlement to physiotherapy services. ​ The only time you will need a referral is if you wish to consult a physiotherapist under Medicare’s Enhanced Primary Care program or through Veterans' Affairs. A GP must assess your eligibility and complete a specific referral for Medicare or DVA funded Physiotherapy.
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Do you do dry needling?Kristine & Casey are both qualified in dry needling. Wondering what dry needling is? Read all about it here in our educational article.
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Is Physiotherapy covered by Private Health Insurance?Yes. Private health funds provide varying levels of cover for Physiotherapy. Please contact your health fund for details of your entitled benefits.
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Is Physiotherapy covered by Medicare?If you have had pain for longer than expected you can visit your doctor and request a Medicare plan referral. If you doctor deems you eligible they may print and fill out the Medicare Care Plan Referral form. For more information about eligability you can download this PDF. Please keep in mind that medicare rebates do NOT cover the full costs of treatment. You will be required to pay for the appointment in full. We complete the Medicare claim on your behalf and you will receive the rebate for your appointment within 48 hours.
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Does Balance Health accept TAC, Workcover and DVA patients?Yes! Additionally, TAC & DVA patients are bulk-billed, Worksafe patients may be required to pay a gap fee.