Osteopathy
Wellness Clinic
Osteopathy
*Kay Fairweather is an independent practitioner. All Osteopathy bookings are made through www.fairweatherosteo.com or via booking links below
Osteopathy is a holistic healthcare approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and nervous system in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Osteopaths are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of conditions by focusing on the body’s structure and function. The core philosophy of osteopathy is that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when provided with the right conditions. Using hands-on techniques, movement therapies, and lifestyle advice, osteopaths work to restore balance and function, supporting long-term health and wellbeing.
Osteopathy is a regulated profession in Australia. To practice as an osteopath, one must complete a three-year bachelor’s degree followed by an additional 1 to 2 years of master’s study. Osteopaths must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and adhere to the standards set by the Osteopathy Board of Australia. As Allied Health Professionals, osteopaths are eligible for Medicare rebates through Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) referrals, and with additional training, they can work with workers’ compensation schemes.
Whether you’re experiencing musculoskeletal pain, managing chronic conditions, or dealing with the effects of stress, osteopathic treatment works to promote long-term health by addressing the root causes of these issues.
Osteopathy and Pelvic Health
An osteopath trained in pelvic health can support individuals dealing with pelvic symptoms or those seeking guidance through various life stages, including pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.
Pelvic health issues are widespread and diverse, often affecting a person’s quality of life. Symptoms of pelvic health problems may include:
- Urinary leakage when coughing, sneezing, or lifting
- Sudden urgency to urinate, which may or may not result in leakage
- Difficulty initiating urination
- Difficulty opening bowels
- Pelvic pain, including from conditions like endometriosis
- Pain during penetration, including sexual intercourse or tampon insertion
- Genital pain
- Tailbone pain
- Pelvic organ prolapse
Osteopaths with specialised training in pelvic health can perform a thorough pelvic assessment, which may include both external and, if appropriate, internal evaluation to assess pelvic floor health and signs of prolapse. Treatment is personalised and may include hands-on therapy, exercises, education, breathwork, and lifestyle advice, all informed by an osteopathic view of the whole person.
Internal assessments are not always necessary, and many individuals prefer to receive treatment using only external techniques. Ultimately, the approach taken will always be guided by individual’s preferences and comfort.
Osteopathy and persistent pain
Persistent (or chronic) pain is now understood to be far more complex than simply a result of tissue damage or injury. It often involves a heightened sensitivity in the nervous system, where pain signals can persist even after the initial injury has healed. Health professionals trained in the latest pain science education, approach persistent pain through a biopsychosocial lens, recognising the important interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors.
While biological factors like muscle or joint dysfunction can contribute to pain, tissue health is often not the primary cause of ongoing pain. Psychological factors, such as stress and emotional well-being, and social influences, including lifestyle, work, and relationships, also play a significant role in how pain is experienced. Understanding the full complexity of persistent pain allows patients to regain control, reducing the fear and frustration that often accompany it. By addressing all these factors, osteopaths help patients reduce physical pain, support mental resilience, and ultimately aid recovery.