FAQ

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Everything you need to know before your first visit. Can't find what you're after? Get in touch — we're happy to chat.

General information

What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure and function. Osteopaths assess and treat nerves, muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons as a whole system. Treatment may include manual therapy, exercise programs, movement and postural advice, ergonomic assessments, and lifestyle recommendations to support overall health and recovery.

How does osteopathy differ from chiropractic and physiotherapy?

Osteopaths, physiotherapists, and chiropractors all use hands-on treatment, corrective exercises, and patient education, but their approaches can differ. Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach, focusing on how different systems work together — treatment typically involves more hands-on techniques to restore movement and function. Chiropractic primarily targets the spine, often centred around joint adjustments in shorter, more frequent sessions. Physiotherapy emphasises rehabilitation exercises and focuses on strengthening the injured area.

What conditions do osteopaths treat?

Osteopaths treat issues affecting joints, muscles, and nerves (the neuromuscular system), including back pain, sciatica, arthritis, neck pain, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, and headaches and migraines.

Will I feel sore after my consultation?

Hands-on therapy is gentle but may cause mild soreness for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. If your pain is acute, certain techniques may feel uncomfortable, but your osteopath will check in with you throughout the session.

Will there be any additional investigations?

Your osteopath may refer you for imaging (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) if necessary. If further medical assessment is required, they may recommend seeing your GP or another specialist. If you have previous scans, please bring them to your appointment.

How long are the appointments?

Initial consultations run for around 60 minutes. Standard return consultations are around 30 minutes, and long return consultations are around 45 minutes for multiple concerns or extended treatment.

What should I wear for my appointment?

Please wear loose-fitting or athletic clothing for comfort and ease of movement. You're welcome to bring a change of clothes.

Should I take painkillers before my consultation?

We don't recommend taking painkillers before your appointment, as they may affect the accuracy of your assessment. Your osteopath can advise on pain management, including medication, if needed.

Can I exercise before or after a treatment?

It's fine to exercise before your appointment. However, we recommend waiting 48 hours after treatment before engaging in high-intensity exercise. Your osteopath will provide personalised advice.

What qualifications do osteopaths have?

Our osteopaths are government-registered allied health practitioners with a Bachelor's degree in Health Science, a Master's in Health Science (Osteopathy), and additional qualifications in Dry Needling and Myofascial Cupping.

Appointments & coverage

Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

No referral is needed — 90% of patients see an osteopath without one. Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners trained to recognise conditions that require medical referral.

Is my appointment covered by Medicare?

No, osteopathy is not covered by Medicare. However, you may be eligible for a Chronic Disease Management Plan through your GP, which provides up to five subsidised treatments per year. Please note: these appointments may incur a gap or out-of-pocket fee.

Does private health insurance cover osteopathy?

Many private health insurance plans cover osteopathy. Coverage varies by provider, so we recommend checking with your insurer for details.

Do you accept WorkSafe, TAC, and DVA patients?

No, Baseline Osteopathy does not accept WorkSafe, TAC, or DVA claims.

Special considerations

Can I see an osteopath if I'm pregnant?

Yes, osteopaths provide manual therapy, exercise support, and postural advice to help reduce pain and improve movement during pregnancy. Treatment is tailored to your individual needs.

Do you treat babies and children?

At Baseline Osteopathy, we do not treat children under 8 years old, and we do not perform spinal manipulative techniques on children under 12. For infant care, we recommend seeing an osteopath with further training in paediatric osteopathy.

Can my osteopath provide a medical certificate?

Osteopaths can issue a certificate of workplace absence if your condition justifies time off. These certificates are commonly issued for musculoskeletal injuries or conditions. Employers are not legally required to accept osteopath-issued certificates, but many do if deemed reasonable.

Location & accessibility

How do I find the clinic, and is there parking available?

Our clinic is located at 4 Bolingbroke Street, Pascoe Vale (rear building). There is ample parking available at the rear of the premises.

Not sure if osteopathy is right for you?

Get in touch — we're happy to chat. Or book online and let's find out together.

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