Osteopaths are allied health and primary healthcare professionals that offer patient-centered approaches to healthcare and functional improvement.

They recognise the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions as a holistic unit.

Osteopaths diagnose and treat injury using non-invasive, manual techniques; orthopedic and neurological testing, soft tissue manipulation, massage, stretching muscle groups and spinal adjustments. They may also recommend exercises and dietary modifications.

An Osteopath works on the premise that posture, injury, or negative lifestyle patterns compromise the anatomical structure and lead to poor health. As practitioners, they look at the relationship between the structure of the body and the way in functions.

According to Osteopathy Australia, practitioners “focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit”. So if you see an osteopath for a sore knee, they may also take a look at your ankle, pelvis and back. The practitioner might also ask about your medical history, as well as factors that don’t appear to be directly related to your current injury.