An osteopath (‘osteo’) is a registered allied health provider who provides hands-on therapy and exercises that improve mobility, relieve muscle tension and help your body’s own healing mechanisms. Osteos assess musculoskeletal conditions with a holistic or ‘whole body’ approach. For example, if you have a sore knee, the osteo may look at the condition of your hips, pelvis and back.
Your osteo can help you with reducing pain and improvement movement in your muscles and joints, using hands-on techniques such as manipulations, stretching and massage. Osteos predominantly treat spinal problems such as lower back and neck pain, but they can also manage a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions.
It is important to find one that’s the best for you. You can find this information on their website or by giving the clinic a call to discuss your condition and requirements.
Some musculoskeletal conditions that osteos treat include:
Your osteo will take a history of your condition and assess your posture, mobility, spine and pelvic balance to determine a treatment plan. After your treatment, you may be given exercises to help with your recovery and manage your pain at home.
Osteos may use a range of hands-on techniques including:
If you're living with a long-term medical condition such as osteoarthritis or diabetes, need support to get back on track, or just want to find a healthier you, Bupa’s health coaching program is here to help. Get information or advice from a qualified nurse or dietitian at times that suit you.
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*Depending on your level of cover, for most services at our Members First extras providers covering dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic and podiatry consultations. Bupa has Members First providers for these services. Not available in all areas. Yearly limits, benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, fund and policy rules apply.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.
You don’t need a referral to see an osteo, but a GP can help you with a recommendation.
You can use Osteopathy Australia’s Find an osteo tool.
Bupa is not associated with or sponsored by Osteopathy Australia.
You may be covered for osteo treatment if you have eligible extras cover that includes osteopathy. The gap (what you pay out-of-pocket) will depend on your cover and your osteo’s fees.
If you’re a Bupa health insurance member, you can check your cover online.
Generally, osteopathy is not covered under Medicare. But, you could be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a relevant GP referral. If you have a chronic condition, your GP may refer you under a plan, such as a GP Management Plan (GPMP) or Team Care Arrangement (TCA). Speak to your GP to see if you are eligible.
This program provides resources and health information as a guide only, not as a substitute for medical advice or a professional endorsement. If you think you have a medical emergency, call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.