Osteopathy in Southport
Osteopaths have studied at university and hold a Master's degree in Osteopathic Medicine. When you see an Osteopath, they will adopt a whole-body focus to understand what may be going on with your musculoskeletal system, and your nervous system. They will focus on your joints, muscles and ligaments and how they are interacting with your nervous system.
On your first visit, the Osteopath will generally ask a lot of questions about your present conditions and any past medical history. This is to help them build a whole picture of your health and health history. The Osteopath will assess your movement and mobility using a variety of orthopaedic tests and hands-on movement of the joints and spine.
Treatment will vary using techniques to gently move the joints and increase the range of motion. Osteopaths use soft tissue massage, stretching, mobilisation, fascial release and harmonic oscillations. They can also manipulate the spine and any other joint if it is indicated. Osteopaths use techniques for the calming of the nervous system or dry needling for specific muscle release.
At the end of your treatment, the Osteopath will give you a working diagnosis and a likely length of time the issue will take to resolve. You may need only one treatment or a few follow-up visits depending on the presenting complaint.
What our osteopaths commonly help with
People visit our Southport osteopaths from across the Gold Coast for a wide range of concerns, including:
- Back pain — from everyday strains to long-standing stiffness
- Neck pain and headaches — including tension related to posture and desk work
- Sports and exercise injuries — assessment, treatment and return-to-activity advice
- Lymphoedema and lymphatic drainage — our osteopath Sam Batchelar has completed an advanced lymphedema management diploma
Common questions about seeing an osteopath
Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?
No. Osteopaths are primary-contact practitioners, so you can book directly without a referral from your GP. If your osteopath feels you would benefit from medical review or imaging, they will discuss that with you and coordinate with your doctor where needed.
What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?
Both are university-trained, government-registered health professionals who treat musculoskeletal problems hands-on. Osteopaths typically take a whole-body approach, looking at how your joints, muscles, circulation and nervous system work together, and use a broad range of gentle techniques alongside joint manipulation where indicated. At our clinic both professions work under one roof, so we can recommend whichever approach suits you best.
Can I claim osteopathy on my private health fund?
Most private health funds with extras cover provide rebates for osteopathy. The amount depends on your fund and level of cover. See our fees page or call us if you have a question about rebates.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is best — something you can move in easily, as your osteopath will assess how you move and may gently move your joints and limbs during treatment.