Choosing an osteopath in Australia: registration, treatment and costs

Osteopaths look at how your whole body moves and use techniques such as soft tissue work, joint mobilisation and exercises to ease pain and improve function. Common reasons to visit include back and neck pain, sports injuries, headaches linked to the neck and posture-related problems.

Osteopath is a protected title. Osteopaths are registered with the Osteopathy Board of Australia through Ahpra, and Ahpra lists osteopathy among the professions in the national scheme. Check the public register on the Ahpra website before you book.

• A detailed history, then a physical examination with movement tests.
• A discussion of findings and a treatment plan.
• Hands-on treatment, with your consent at each step.
• Home exercises and advice, and referral to your GP if needed.

Healthdirect says you do not usually need a referral to see an osteopath. Tell the osteopath about medications, previous injuries and any conditions such as osteoporosis.

Fees vary by clinic and consult length. Osteopathy is among the services that can be part of Medicare's allied health items, with up to five individual services each calendar year for patients with a GP chronic condition management plan and a referral, shared across types of service. Many private health funds cover osteopathy under extras up to annual limits. Ask for a quote and expected number of visits.

These professions all treat musculoskeletal pain and have a lot of overlap. The difference you notice in practice is often the individual practitioner. Look for someone who explains your problem clearly, gives you exercises or self-management advice and refers on when your problem is outside their scope.

If you are unsure, start with a GP for new, severe or unexplained symptoms, then choose a registered practitioner you feel comfortable with.

• Bring a list of medications, past injuries and any scans or reports.
• Wear clothing you can move in and that allows access to the area being treated.
• Say clearly if something hurts or you want to stop.
• Do the home exercises; they usually matter as much as the hands-on treatment.
• Ask what to expect over the next day or two and when to call if symptoms change.

Before any hands-on treatment, the osteopath should explain what they plan to do and ask for your consent. You can say no to a technique at any time, ask for a chaperone or bring someone with you. If you have a condition such as osteoporosis, a spinal problem or take medicines that affect bleeding or bone density, say so at the start so treatment can be adjusted.

1. Are you registered with Ahpra?
2. What do you think is causing my problem, and how will you treat it?
3. What are the risks and alternatives?
4. How many sessions do you expect?
5. How much will it cost, and can I claim?

• 'Osteopathy treats unrelated illnesses.' Be cautious of such claims.
• 'The cracking sound means it worked.' Sound is not a measure of success.
• 'Pain must be fully gone after one visit.' Recovery varies; ask what progress to expect.

Check with a professional first. Seek urgent medical care for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, new weakness, severe unexplained pain, fever with back pain or pain after significant trauma. See your GP first if you have osteoporosis, cancer or take blood thinners.