Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?
Although many clients are referred by their doctor, or another health care professional, this is not required, and you can make an appointment directly with your osteopath. This even applies if you have had an accident and wish to submit an ACC claim.
Can an osteopath lodge my ACC claim?
Yes, your osteopath can help you with all the paperwork, and lodge the claim for you. Let your osteopath know if you have had an accident and wish to lodge a claim.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
If you have any x-rays, test results or relevant medical notes bring these with you. For babies it may also be useful to bring their Plunket Book.
What should I wear?
As osteopathy is a manual medicine, treatment is hand on, and usually involves moving various parts of your body. Make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothing. Depending on the area being looked at, it may be necessary to undress down to your underwear. Please speak to your osteopath if you feel uncomfortable in any way.
Will osteopathic treatment hurt?
Most osteopathic treatment is gentle and should not cause high levels of discomfort. At times, hands on treatment of painful or tender areas will be necessary, and in these cases your osteopath will take care to make you as comfortable as possible. Some people experience some soreness for a day or two after a treatment as their body reacts and adjusts to the treatment. If this persists or increases, contact your osteopath to discuss it.
How long will the treatment take?
This varies, but most appointments will last between 30-60 minutes. In some cases your initial consultation may be longer than a follow up visit.
How much will an osteopathic treatment cost?
The costs of treatment vary between clinics and around the country. Remember to ask when you book your appointment. Some private health insurances will reimburse your fees, and treatment for an ACC covered injury will be less than a full fee, as you are only required to make a co-payment.
What training do osteopaths undertake?
In New Zealand osteopathic training consists of a 5 year university program. Any osteopath who trained overseas has had their training assessed and approved to be of the same standard. These standards are set by our regulating authority, the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand. Each year, practicing osteopaths are required to complete a set amount of continuing professional development.
I have heard of osteopaths using acupuncture. Is this part of osteopathy?
Although not a part of traditional osteopathy, some osteopaths have incorporated western medical acupuncture into their practice. These osteopaths have completed accredited postgraduate training and have an additional registration which sets and regulates standards.