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Osteopath Brisbane

The Best Osteopaths in Brisbane

Updated 11 April 2023

Summary

  • People with conditions impacting bones, joints, and muscles benefit from osteopathy.
  • Osteopathy is a manual medicine that acknowledges the critical connection between the body’s structure and functioning. An osteopath will help you heal by concentrating on your body as a holistic unit. Unlike physiotherapy, Osteopathy focuses on the entire body and doesn’t rely on post-care exercise.
  • Our guide covers treatment costs, Medicare options, what to know before making an appointment and frequently asked questions.
  • We also list Brisbane’s most trusted and experienced Osteopaths to help you in your search for a local specialist.

Know This First: Do I need to see an Osteopath?

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in your bones, joints, or muscles, an osteopath may be able to help. Osteopaths use various techniques, including massage, manipulation, and stretching, to help relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Some common conditions that may benefit from osteopathy include:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Arthritis
  • Sciatica
  • Sports injuries
  • Repetitive strain injuries
  • Postural problems

If you’re unsure whether osteopathy is the right treatment, it’s always a good idea to consult your GP or a healthcare professional to help you determine if osteopathy is suitable for your condition and provide you with further advice on your treatment options.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regular osteopathic treatment can also help prevent injuries and improve your overall wellbeing.

Osteopaths Brisbane Cost

How Much Do Osteopathy Treatments Cost?

  • An Initial session will cost between $120 and $150, depending on where you go. It will last from 30 minutes to 60 minutes, depending on the severity of your issue.
  • A return/follow-up session will cost between $100 and $140. Your follow-up sessions will last from 30 to 60 minutes, and the frequency of follow-up sessions you require will depend on the severity of your condition.
  • A Medicare rebate-approved session will cost $55.10 rebate and will allow you up to 5 sessions with an osteopath per calendar year.

How do I pay?

Cash, debit/credit cards (certain specialists charge a percentage fee for card charges), Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay are all accepted payment methods and may vary.

If you qualify for Medicare rebates, you will claim 85% of the $64.80 fee, making your total amount $55.10. After your session, you will either:

  • Pay the full amount of your session and use your detailed receipt to claim your rebate, or
  • Pay the difference between the Medicare rebate and the full amount, claim your rebate from Medicare and then forward it to the osteopath. You can only do this with the agreement of the osteopath.

Every osteopath is different; however, they should advise you if they will not take Medicare rebates as full payment for your treatment or if they will charge you a gap fee – the amount you pay above what the Medicare benefit is.Osteopaths Brisbane Questions

Questions to Ask When Making an Appointment

1. Will I need to bring x-rays?

If you have any recent x-rays or medical testing, your osteopath may be able to use these to help manage your condition. Therefore, any relevant medical reports could be useful.

2. What should I wear to my appointment?

Being a manual medicine, osteopathic treatment is hands-on and frequently entails moving different body parts. Therefore, make sure you’re dressed comfortably and loosely. You might need to take your clothes off all the way to your underwear, depending on the area being examined. If you feel uncomfortable, ensure that you discuss this with your osteopath.

3. What can I expect during the treatment?

It’s crucial to clearly understand what to expect during the osteopathic treatment to prepare yourself physically and mentally. For example, your osteopath can explain the techniques they will be using, the duration of the session, and how you will feel afterwards.

4. How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments you will require will depend on your condition and the progress you make. Ask your osteopath how many treatments you might need to get an idea of the treatment duration and cost.

5. How much does each session cost?

It’s important to ask about the cost of each session and if there are any additional costs, such as x-ray fees. You can also inquire about any insurance or Medicare rebates you may be eligible for.

6. How long will each session last?

Knowing the length of the osteopathic session can help you schedule your day accordingly. Most sessions last between 30 to 60 minutes, but this may vary depending on your condition and the techniques used.

7. Are there any side effects or risks associated with the treatment?

Like any other medical treatment, osteopathy may have side effects or risks. Therefore, discussing any potential side effects with your osteopath before treatment is important, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications.

8. Can I contact my osteopath in case of an emergency or follow-up questions?

Knowing if your osteopath is available for follow-up questions or in an emergency is important. Ask for their contact information and if there are any after-hours or emergency services available.

9. What type of osteopathic techniques do you specialize in and do you have experience treating my specific condition?

Osteopathy encompasses a variety of techniques, so it’s important to know if your osteopath specializes in any specific type of treatment. This information can help you understand what to expect from your session and may influence your decision on which osteopath to choose.

If you have a specific condition or injury, it’s important to ask your osteopath if they have experience treating patients with similar issues. This can help ensure that you receive the most effective treatment and may also give you peace of mind knowing that your osteopath is familiar with your condition.

10. How soon can I expect to see results?

While the timeline for results can vary depending on your condition, it’s important to ask your osteopath when you can expect improvements. This can help you manage your expectations and give you an idea of how long you may need to continue treatment.

Osteopaths Brisbane Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

Osteopathy treatment does not require a referral. Because they are primary health care practitioners, you only need to call one to schedule an appointment.

What happens during my appointment?

During your appointment, your osteopath will request a full medical history. They will then perform a thorough physical examination on you, including assessing your joint range of motion, posture, and muscle system palpation. If necessary, orthopaedic and neurological testing may be performed. After completing your examination, your osteopath will explain their diagnosis to you and your treatment plan. Finally, they’ll discuss how many sessions you’ll need and what treatments you’ll require, such as joint manipulation and articulation, soft tissue massage and myofascial release, and stretching and ligament balancing procedures.

What is the difference between a physiotherapist and an osteopath?

Physiotherapy and osteopathy are distinct healthcare professions offering different approaches to treating pain, injury, and limited mobility. While they share some similarities, their treatment philosophies, methods, and scope of practice differ. Understanding these differences can help you decide which professional to consult.

Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiovascular problems. They use various methods, including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound, electrotherapy, and heat or cold therapy. Physiotherapists aim to restore and optimize movement, function, and overall well-being by addressing the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction. Their treatments are often area specific and tailored to the individual’s condition and goals.

Osteopaths, on the other hand, focus on the body’s structure and how it influences function. They believe that the body’s various components are interconnected and that proper alignment and balance are essential for optimal health. Using a holistic approach, osteopaths identify and treat the root cause of a problem by addressing imbalances in the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems. Their primary treatment method is manual therapy, which involves hands-on manipulation, mobilization, and soft tissue work.

When deciding whether to see a physiotherapist or an osteopath, consider the following factors:

  1. The nature of your condition: A physiotherapist may be better suited to address your needs if you have a specific injury or a localized issue. However, if your problem seems to be related to overall body mechanics or involves multiple systems, an osteopath might be the more appropriate choice.
  2. Treatment preferences: An osteopath may be a better fit if you prefer hands-on treatment and a more holistic approach. A physiotherapist might be more suitable if you are more interested in exercise-based rehabilitation and the use of various therapeutic modalities.
  3. Availability and access: Depending on where you live, one profession may be more readily available than the other. Additionally, your insurance coverage or referral requirements may influence your decision.
  4. Personal rapport: Finding a practitioner with whom you feel comfortable and confident is important. Consider meeting with a physiotherapist and an osteopath to discuss your needs and determine which professional aligns best with your goals and preferences.

Do I qualify for Medicare to subsidise my Osteopathy treatments?

It depends on your condition and whether or not you have been diagnosed with a chronic disease. If you are eligible for the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program, you will receive the best pricing for an osteopath in Australia. The CDM program allows your doctor to refer you to an osteopath for up to five sessions within a year. Generally, only people with chronic pain, terminal medical conditions or complex care needs will be placed on the CDM and be referred to an osteopath or any other allied health professional.

Do Osteopaths need to be qualified or licenced?

Yes – osteopaths need certain qualifications to practice osteopathy – An osteopath must earn a bachelor’s degree and an extra one to two years of master’s level studies in osteopathy before registering as an osteopath. Following graduation, they must apply to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Can an Osteopath help my child or baby?

Yes – Osteopaths also treat children and newborns because the medical treatment is safe and gentle and can be tailored to any age group. The most popular treatment methods for children and babies are gentle cranial osteopathy procedures or light rocking movements and mobilisation.

Will an Osteopathy treatment be painful?

It is normal to feel some pain after your treatment – It is normal to be sore in the first 24-48 hours after your treatment due to the physical nature of the treatment. A professional osteopath will review some possible reactions following your session.

The Best Brisbane Osteopaths

Map of Best Brisbane Osteopaths

We’ve put together the top Brisbane Osteopaths and have collated them into a map for you to help show you where they’re located.

Our List of the Best Brisbane Osteopaths

Osteoworks Brisbane

Osteoworks

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Wide range of professional services.
  • Have healed clients after years of pain, in a handful of sessions.
  • Noticeable relief after starting sessions.

Services offered (but not limited to): Back and neck treatment, sciatica, headaches and migraines, muscular strains and injuries, shoulder injuries and rehabilitation.

The Whole Body Clinic Brisbane

The Whole Body Clinic

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Knowledgeable team who show compassion.
  • They are highly qualified, trained, and experienced.
  • Professional, helpful, and give honest advice.

Services offered (but not limited to): Osteopathy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, compression, and more.

Next Level Health Brisbane

Next Level Health

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Excellent remedial massage.
  • Very caring, professional, and friendly service.
  • Knowledgeable about muscles and a huge help with relieving pain and stress.

Services offered (but not limited to): Acupuncture, musculoskeletal therapy, remedial therapy, osteopathy.

Vibe Natural Health Brisbane

Vibe Natural

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Provide a wide range of services.
  • Professional services with genuine care.
  • Intuitive massage therapists.

Services offered (but not limited to): Naturopath, Osteopath, Chiropractor, Massage, Acupuncture, Nutrition, and other services.

On Point Osteo Brisbane

On Point Osteo

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Detailed initial consultation.
  • Extremely knowledgeable and super personable.
  • Makes the patient feel at ease.

Services offered (but not limited to): Joint manipulation, soft tissue massage, balanced ligamentous tension, dry needling, muscle energy technique.

Head Above Osteopathy Brisbane

Head Above Osteopathy Brisbane

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Professional and holistic approach to improve posture and alleviate pain.
  • Knowledgeable in osteopathic health. 
  • Help patients to recover faster.

Services offered (but not limited to): Myotherapy, pregnancy care, posture neurology.

Brisbane West Osteopath

Brisbane West Osteopath

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Quickly resolve chronic lower back problems.
  • Communication is done in a respectful manner.
  • Professional and efficient.

Services offered (but not limited to): Lower back pain, headaches, migraines, whiplash, scoliosis, sports injuries.

Move Osteopathy Brisbane

Move Osteopathy

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Extremely friendly and professional team. 
  • In-depth knowledge and detailed session.
  • Aim to find the cause not just treat the symptoms.

Services offered (but not limited to): Osteopathy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, podiatry, and more.

Move Osteopathy Brisbane

Move Osteopathy-Brisbane

Overview:

What customers like:

  • The service is efficient, friendly, and professional.
  • Doctors are keen to find the cause, not just treat the symptoms.
  • Helpful and understanding team.

Services offered (but not limited to): Osteopathy, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, pilates, and remedial massage.

Still Point Osteopathy Brisbane

Still Point Osteopathy

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Experts in the field and know how to treat a wide variety of conditions.
  • Pleasant and easy to chat with.
  • Very knowledgeable, professional and with a great attention to detail.

Services offered (but not limited to): Sciatica treatment, neck & upper back, headaches & migraines, sports Injuries, pregnancy osteopathy, remedial massage.

All About Movement Brisbane

All About Movement

Overview:

  • Google Rating: