Frequently Asked Questions
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What does an osteopath do?
An osteopath is a primary healthcare practitioner who assesses, diagnoses, and treats musculoskeletal conditions. We use hands-on techniques, prescribe movement advice, and rehabilitation strategies to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support long-term recovery.
Osteopaths in New Zealand are ACC-registered and trained to recognise when referral or imaging is appropriate.
Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?
No referral is needed. You can book directly.
If your injury is covered by ACC, we can lodge a claim for you during your appointment.
Is osteopathy covered by ACC?
Yes. ACC covers many acute injuries, including back pain, sprains, strains, and sports injuries.
You don’t need a GP referral — we can submit the claim on your behalf. You’ll just pay the ACC co-payment.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your osteopath will take a detailed case history, assess your movement, and perform hands-on testing to understand what’s contributing to your symptoms.
Treatment may include gentle manual therapy, soft-tissue techniques, joint mobilisation, and personalised exercise advice.
You’ll leave with a clear plan and next steps.
What conditions do osteopaths treat?
Common conditions include:
- Back and neck pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Shoulder, hip, and knee pain
- Pregnancy-related discomfort
- Sports injuries
- Postural or work-related strain
- Persistent or recurring pain
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy can help, we’re happy to advise.
What’s the difference between an osteopath and a physio?
Both treat musculoskeletal pain, but the approach differs. Osteopaths take a whole-body perspective, focusing on how joints, muscles, and movement patterns interact.
Treatment is typically hands-on, combined with movement and rehabilitation advice. Physiotherapists often focus more on exercise-based rehabilitation.
Many patients find osteopathy helpful when they want a more integrated, hands-on approach.
What’s the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?
Osteopaths and chiropractors both treat musculoskeletal pain, but their
approaches differ.
Osteopaths
- Use a wide range of gentle hands-on techniques, including soft-tissue work,
joint mobilisation, stretching, and movement-based treatment - Focus on how the whole body functions together — muscles, joints, posture,
breathing, and movement patterns - Provide exercise and self-management strategies alongside manual therapy
- Typically use low-force, comfortable techniques suitable for all ages
Chiropractors
- Often focus more specifically on the spine
- Commonly use high-velocity adjustments (“cracking”) as their primary
technique - May use X-rays more routinely as part of assessment
Many patients choose osteopathy when they want a gentler, whole-body approach that integrates hands-on treatment with movement and rehabilitation advice.
Where does osteopathy come from?
Osteopathy was founded in the late 1800s by Dr Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician who believed that the body functions as an interconnected system.
He observed that when the body’s structure — muscles, joints, circulation, and movement — works well, health improves.
Modern osteopathy has evolved significantly. Today’s osteopaths are university-trained primary healthcare practitioners who combine hands-on treatment with contemporary medical understanding, pain science, and rehabilitation principles.
In New Zealand, osteopaths are regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act and are ACC-registered.
How long is an osteopathy session?
Appointments are typically 45–60 minutes for an initial consultation and 30 minutes for follow-ups. This allows time for assessment, treatment, and personalised advice.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. You won’t be asked to undress beyond what you’re comfortable with — we can work around clothing as
needed.
When should I see an osteopath?
People commonly see us for:
- Sudden injuries
- Ongoing or recurring pain
- Pregnancy-related discomfort
- Sports or training-related issues
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Postural strain from work
If your symptoms are new, worsening, or affecting daily life, an assessment is
worthwhile.
Can I claim osteopathy through health insurance?
Most major health insurers in New Zealand include osteopathy in their policies.
Coverage varies, so it’s best to check your plan. We can provide receipts for
reimbursement.
When should I seek urgent medical care instead?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe, sudden, or unexplained pain
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the saddle area
- Chest pain or breathing difficulty
- Unexplained weight loss, fever, or night sweats
If we identify red flags during your appointment, we’ll refer you promptly.