Frequently Asked Questions

What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a manual therapy used to relieve pain and improve total body health by treating the neuro muscular skeletal system. The osteopath is fully-trained to differentially diagnose the problem to ensure that the patient is fit for osteopathic treatment.

What do osteopaths treat?

Conditions such as chronic and acute aches and pains related to:

• Posture
• Sports injury
• Pregnancy
• Arthritis

Do I need an X-ray first?

An osteopath takes an in depth case history. If the case history indicates an x-ray is required straight away we are able to refer for one. If the patient does not get better when expected then an x-ray is requested. Even better, if you have a film or CD of a relevant x-ray bring it with you.

What can I expect when I visit an osteopath?

Your osteopath will take a detailed case history, examine the area of concern, as well as making note of the overall posture, so you will be asked to remove the appropriate garments to make this possible. A gown is provided for you to wear if you wish. Your comfort is a priority to us at all times.

How many treatments do I need?

Your osteopath should be able to give you an indication after your first visit of the number of treatments required. This depends upon the type of problem and the length of time it has been with you. Following your first treatment there is some times an increase in symptoms. This does not necessarily mean the problem is worse; it is the body's response to a change taking place. You and your osteopath should be seeing some reduction in symptoms/pain by three treatments.

Do I need maintenance treatment?

Some people may a have simple problem which resolves in one to three treatments. Others may have a more complex injury that may even require top-up treatment three-monthly or even annual maintenance. The job you do may aggravate the problem or the body type you have inherited but the treatment regime is designed to suit you.

How do I find an osteopath?

• Qualifications
• Word-of-mouth
• ACC Provider
• State registration OCNZ
• Association ONZ keeps a register
• Contact us

Do I need a referral from a GP?

No, formal referral from a GP is not necessary, however, we do have referrals from GPs and we enjoy a close working relationship with many of the local practitioners as well as many other health professionals.

Can I have osteopathic treatment on ACC or Registered Insurer (work related) for an injury?

Yes, Accident Insurance provides a statutory entitlement but this does not cover the full cost of treatment. You will be asked to pay a co-payment to cover the full cost.

Under recent changes to the ACC act you can now go directly to your registered osteopath when an injury has been sustained. Your osteopath will make the appropriate onward referral as necessary. Please contact the insurer or Shakespeare Osteopathic Services if you have any queries.

Will my medical insurance cover osteopathy?

Osteopathy is covered by some insurance policies. Please contact your insurer for details and requirements.

What if I need a sick note?

If you require a sick note from your employer, you will need to visit your GP.

What is the Cost?

All fees are based on half hourly appointments and are GST inclusive.

Please give us the earliest possible notification of any cancellation or you will be charged a $35.00 cancellation fee.