553 Wyndham Street Shepparton 3630

What is Osteopathy?

An Osteopath is a person who treats disorders of the body framework using a variety of techniques including Soft tissue therapy (Massage), Articulation (Movement), Mobilisation, Manipulation, Stretching and Strengthening. The aim of using these techniques is to restore normal function, or motion, to the body. It can be applied to all parts of the body and is very effective on the musculoskeletal system including the spine and other joints. Osteopaths are also able to offer you personal advice on stretching and strengthening exercises, posture, diet, ergonomics and stress management.

Osteopathy is a unique holistic approach to healthcare because it doesn’t just concentrate on treating the problem area, but considers what impact other regions and systems of the body may have on the complaint. Osteopathy uses a drug-free manual approach that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework. It also works to promote the effects of the body’s nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems. This encourages your body’s natural ability to heal itself, at times with a little help from us, but also in conjunction with maintaining good posture and breathing, appropriate lifestyle modification, a healthy diet and exercise.

As Osteopaths we encourage individuals to proactively manage injuries and ailments, but are happy to advise when this  approach doesn’t work and can assist with your preventative “tune-up.” The prevention of injuries means less time off work or from doing what you want to do the most, therefore more time can be spent being active, socialising and enjoying the benefits of good health. It is also very important to be aware of how injuries can occur and what you can do to avoid them.

 

What is going to happen in my first treatment?

A usual Initial Osteopathic Consultation consists of a Case History, a detailed Osteopathic Examination and Treatment if appropriate, usually lasting between 30mins and 1hour depending on your condition. Advice may also be offered concerning posture, exercises and ergonomics to help your particular condition and to maximise treatment benefits. An appropriate management plan will also be developed with you. If you require any subsequent Osteopathic Consultations these usually lasts between 15 and 30mins duration.

 

*Please note: You may be required to remove some clothing (except underwear) as part of your consultation. If you have any concerns regarding this please contact the clinic or discuss these concerns with your practitioner.

 

What should I do on the day of my appointment and what should I bring with me?

We suggest that you try to arrive approximately 10minutes prior to your consultation time to allow you time to fill out our new patient forms and to relax before you receive your treatment. Unfortunately late arrivals may necessitate a reschedule of appointment as we do aim to operate as close to time as possible for your convenience.

You should bring any referrals you may have with you and also any other medical images and x-rays, medication lists, nutritional supplements and any other information that may be of benefit to your consultation.

After you have received your treatment here at the clinic it is ideal to try and rest for a few hours if possible (well understanding this is not always practical.) This is to help with the recovery of any post treatment soreness that you may experience. A lot of people do experience some soreness and tiredness afterwards but this usually persists for 24-48 hours. We also suggest you increase your hydration (water) afterwards to assist in the elimination of toxins and consider trying a warm shower to relax your muscles. It is also recommended that you continue to keep mobile (unless advised) but to rest from vigorous activity including sport and exercise for a couple of days. If you have any concerns after your treatment or are unsure that what you are experiencing is “normal” please contact the clinic.

 

How often will I need treatment?

The frequency of treatment depends on both your requirements and expectations of your health care and can be discussed with your Osteopath. As some of the problems we see here have built up over a long period of time it can take a few treatments before the body limbers up and we see a both a positive improvement in peoples mobility and a positive reduction in peoples pain. As a general guide the longer you have had the injury the longer it can be before these positive changes are seen. Your Osteopath will be able to give you a better idea of your prognosis when they have seen you and  discuss any changes to this with you as they arise. Some people will require treatment once or twice per week until their pain is relieved or reduced, however as the body has an excellent self maintenance system continuous treatment is not usually necessary.