Frequently Asked Questions
what qualifications does an osteopath have?
Australian osteopaths are AHPRA government registered practitioners who complete a minimum of 5 years full-time university training.
Osteopaths are primary care practitioners, they perform standard medical examination of the musculoskeletal and nervous system and are trained to recognise conditions that require medical referral. To maintain registration, osteopaths are required to complete a minimum 25 hours of professional development annually.
Osteopaths study a broad range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, general medical and orthopaedic diagnosis, pathology, biochemistry, immunology, pain science, nutrition and more.
If you would like to know more about what post graduate qualifications I have, read more about my further studies here.
do i need a referral to see an osteopath?
No, you do not need a referral to see an osteopath. If you have any questions about whether osteopathy can help your specific complaint, please feel free to contact me to discuss prior to booking.
Patients are commonly referred from other health professionals, if this is the case, I am always happy to speak to other practitioners in your health care team. I believe that collaboration and communication between health professionals is so important to achieve the best possible outcomes for each individual.
is osteopathy covered by private health insurance?
Osteopathy is covered by most private health care funds if you have extras on your plan. It is recommended to check your individual coverage before your session to see if your specifically covered for osteopathy.
do you offer online consultations?
Yes, I offer online osteopathic appointments! This service is designed to provide education, self management strategies, well-being support, ergonomic advice and a tailored rehabilitation program to those who are unable to physically attend appointments.
If you live in an area without a women’s health therapist or have tried one without success, online consults are a great option! I love to explore complex cases that haven’t seen success elsewhere.
Online consultations provide tremendous value in overcoming or managing your condition. I aim to ensure you feel educated and empowered and give you a specific plan to make improvements in your pain levels and function.
You are also able to claim online consults through your private health fund if you are covered for osteopathy.
To schedule an online consulation click here to book. Or if you’d like more information email me at info@spiritofindigo.com.au
what should i expect in my first consultation?
You will be asked to complete a new patient form regarding your medial history. You will be asked relevant questions about your current complaint and a thorough medial history will be taken. You may also be asked about other parts of your body that may not seem as though they are related to your problem but as osteopaths we have a whole body approach.
- Perform any orthopaedic or neurological testing if indicated
- Perform a full physical examination based on the information discussed in your history, this allows a diagnosis to be made and explained to you.
- Hands on treatment is performed which may include myofascial release, joint mobilization, stretching, soft tissue massage, muscle energy techniques, joint manipulation and dry needling (if indicated). Emma also uses a variety of indirect techniques that are very gentle and well suited to children and pregnant women in particular.
- Explain your expected response to treatment, give you a management plan, take home advice and exercises if relevant to your complaint