What is an Osteopath & how can we help your patients? - A guide for GP’s.
What is an Osteopath?
An Osteopath is an APHRA registered, university trained, allied health practitioner that can treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Osteopathy focuses on a whole body to approach to patient care with the aim of improving the body’s mobility and/or stability in order to reduce pain and improve the overall function of the musculoskeletal system .
Osteopaths use a combination of traditional and modern healthcare philosophies. Osteopaths generally use non-invasive forms of therapy like muscle soft-tissue work, joint mobilisation or manipulation, stretching and exercises, combined with education and advice to support the body’s natural healing processes.
To learn more about Osteopathy, follow the link below: www.whatisosteo.com
What is the difference between Osteo, Chiro & Physio?
All three professions are trained to manage musculoskeletal conditions. There are historical differences in the philosophical approaches of each. However, the consultation process (assessment and treatment) should look similar across the professions. Traditionally, Physio may favour exercise rehabilitation, and Chiro / Osteo would adopt a more hands on manual therapy approach for management and treatment. However, as the professions have evolved these distinctions have become blurred as current best practices will combine hands on care with exercise rehabilitation
What conditions would be happy to recieve referrals for?
MSK Conditions represent 13% of the total disease burden in Australia. Low back pain is the most common MSK condition worldwide, followed by fractures, osteoarthritis and neck pain.
What should patients expect from a Consultation?
TIME:
60 min for initial consultation
30 minutes for return consultation
HISTORY:
Thorough history with medical / red flag screening.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION:
• Neurological Examination
• Range of Motion Assessment
• Strength Assessment
• Relevant Orthopedic Testing
• Functional / Capacity Testing
EVIDENCE BASED MANAGEMENT:
Depending on the diagnosis, evidence based management may include:
Manual therapy:
• Soft Tissue work • Dry Needling • Manipulation
• Kinesiotaping
Education:
• Lifestyle • Ergonomic • Postural
Exercise Rehabilitation:
• Mobility • Stability • Capacity
Treatment plans can be anywhere from 3-5 visits depending on the condition.
Is Osteopathy covered by Medicare or Private Health Insurance?
Osteopathy is eligible for Medicare rebates through the Chronic Disease Management Plan (EPC). Patients can access 5 appointments per calendar year, for treatment of MSK conditions that the GP deems appropriate for referral.
Osteopathy is covered by the majority of private health insurers in Australia (BUPA, Medibank, NIB, HFC and others). Rebates will vary dependent on the patients extras coverage.
About our Osteopathy & Allied Health Clinic in Varsity Lakes:
Solution Health & Rehab. opened its doors in early 2024, with the aim of providing the highest level of care to patients looking to reduce their pain and improve their health in Varsity Lakes and the surrounding suburbs. The clinic is well equipped to manage patients with acute injuries to those with more long term chronic conditions.
Our rehab facility has been designed to accommodate athletes looking to improve their performance, while at the same time providing a safe and supportive environment to someone in pain that may have not been in gym setting previously. Our approach integrates a range of techniques to offer evidence based, hands on manual therapy with tailored exercise rehabilitation to help our patients achieve their goals.
If you require any further information regarding osteopathy, our clinic or wish to refer a patient, please contact us directly on 07 5679 0638 / info@solutionhealthandrehab.com