Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine which uses a "whole body" approach to manual therapy. This is achieved by focusing primarily on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit. Osteopaths recognise the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. They are trained to gently manipulate the body back into balance to facilitate the body's natural healing ability. Osteopaths are skilled in the evaluation and diagnosis of musculoskeletal and functional disorders of the body and a wide range of hands-on techniques are used for treatment.

Who founded Osteopathy?

Osteopathy was developed in America in the 1870's by a Missouri Doctor named Andrew Taylor Still. Since then, Osteopathy has developed into a profession that is now widely recognised throughout the world as one of the most scientifically validated and effective 'complementary' therapies.

How is an Osteopath trained?

Osteopaths are government registered practitioners who complete a minimum 5-year full-time university degree which encompasses osteopathic technique, anatomy, physiology, pathology and general medical diagnosis. Osteopaths are primary care practitioners and are trained to recognise conditions which require medical referral.

Osteopaths at ATUNE consult in:

• All general musculoskeletal conditions and complaints.
• Sporting injuries - We have been the Osteopathic therapist and injury management consultant to the Newcastle Knights from 2006-present.
• Family health - Consult in paediatric, obstetric and general family health.
• Company/workplace care and OHS services - ATUNE manages work-related injuries, and provides individual and corporate injury management assessments and rehabilitation, servicing several large businesses in the Hunter Region.

Osteopaths can help with conditions such as:

General conditions

• Neck and back pain
• Arthritis
• Sciatica
• Headaches and migraines
• Postural strain and tightness
• Back pain and musculoskeletal pelvic pain related to pregnancy
• RSI
• Joint pain, and stiffness
• Breathing restrictions associated with asthma
• Gynaecological problems related to a musculoskeletal condition
• Pelvic pain

On your first visit, the Osteopath will

• Conduct a comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
• Diagnose the disorder and determine whether there is a need for referral to other health care practitioners.
• Prescribe a treatment plan based on the information provided to address the whole body and its imbalances. It is this "whole body, multi-system" approach that has been the basis of the success of Osteopathy over the last century.
• Offer advice on nutrition, general health, posture and exercise.

Depending on the area of your body requiring treatment, your osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear. It's important that you feel comfortable, so you may want to wear loose pants or bring a pair of shorts to change into. Also, as osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment, your practitioner may look at other parts of your body, as well as the area that is troubling you. For example, if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back.

Your Osteopath will work with you to achieve a decrease in the frequency and intensity of your symptoms.  During treatment, your Osteopath will aim to facilitate the bodies’ natural ability to recover by restoring alignment and function in the affected areas.  Over the course of treatment, your Osteopath will also prescribe home-based management to achieve the best possible outcome with the view towards home-based management of your complaint. 

No you do not need a referral to see an Osteopath. You can simply contact us directly to make an appointment.

Can I claim my treatment?

Yes, you can claim your treatment. There are four schemes that will enable you to claim your treatment.

• EPC plans - under the Medicare Plus scheme clients with chronic conditions may be referred by their GP for osteopathic treatment.
• Veterans' Affairs clients are welcome at ATUNE.
• Workers Compensation and Transport Accident compensation schemes are available to clients with all treatment costs covered.
• Private Health Funds - clients with ancillary or "extras" cover can claim partial rebates depending on their insurance policy.

For your convenience, ATUNE provides an electronic facility so you can claim your HICAPS and Medicare rebate at the time of your consultation.