Osteopathy originated in the United States in the 1870s and was developed by medical doctors. Osteopaths are health practitioners who assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. They take a holistic, whole-person approach—focusing not just on the symptoms, but on finding and addressing the root cause of your pain.
What Does an Osteopath Do?
Osteopaths assess, diagnose, and treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems. This includes bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and associated nerves.
Unlike some treatments that focus only on the painful area, an osteopath looks at how your whole body is functioning. For example, hip stiffness might contribute to knee pain, or poor posture may lead to recurring headaches.
Common Techniques Used by Osteopaths:
- Hands-on manual therapy – gentle joint mobilisation, stretching, and soft tissue massage.
- Exercise rehabilitation programs – customised exercises to strengthen and improve mobility.
- Dry needling – using fine needles to relieve muscle tightness and reduce discomfort.
- Taping techniques – to provide joint support, reduce strain, and aid recovery.
Conditions Osteopaths Commonly Treat
People see osteopaths for a variety of reasons, including:
- Muscle or joint pain – neck, back, hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, or wrists.
- Sports injuries – sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.
- Nerve-related symptoms – tingling, numbness, burning sensations, or shooting pain.
- Chronic conditions – such as arthritis or repetitive strain injuries.
- Support before and after surgery – helping prepare your body and assisting with recovery.
- Pre- and post-natal care – relieving discomfort during pregnancy and aiding postnatal recovery.
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy can help, an initial consultation can help determine if it’s right for your needs.
Osteopathy in Australia
In Australia, osteopathy is recognised as an allied health profession regulated by the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This ensures practitioners meet strict professional standards and deliver safe, effective care.
When Should You See an Osteopath?
You might consider visiting an osteopath if you have:
- Muscle or joint pain
- Recent or long-standing injuries
- Nerve-related symptoms (numbness, shooting or burning pain)
- Chronic conditions such as arthritis
- Pre- or post-surgery support
- Pre- or post-natal care
We Do Things Differently at All About Movement
Many other clinics rely on getting their patients in regularly.
We are different!
Unlike many other clinics that focus on getting patients through the door repeatedly, we do things differently at All About Movement. Here, you’re never just another patient, and your treatment never feels like it’s going nowhere.
We believe in empowering you with the right education so you can take charge of your own health and movement—because real progress happens when you understand why and how to take care of yourself.
Our Practitioners Will:
- Listen to your issues and needs.
- Diagnose and educate you on what is happening, why it happened, and how it can be fixed and managed.
- Provide effective, safe treatment to improve your condition.
- Equip you with knowledge and tools for self-management, so your results last.
Health is an individual journey, not a one-size-fits-all process. Our osteopaths take pride in delivering you the best care and advice for your specific needs. This may also include referral to your GP or one of our trusted health professionals to ensure you get the right care at the right time.
How Osteopathy Differs from Other Therapies?
Osteopathy is sometimes compared to physiotherapy and chiropractic care, but its main point of difference is its whole-body focus. Rather than only treating the area of pain, osteopaths consider the broader picture—looking at how the rest of the body might be affecting the problem. This often leads to more lasting results and improved overall wellbeing.
Is Osteopathy Right for You?
If you’re dealing with pain, restricted movement, or recovering from an injury, osteopathy could be an effective option. Because it’s tailored to each person’s needs, your treatment will be designed to suit your body, lifestyle, and goals.
Ready to Book Your Session?
At All About Movement, we’re here to help you move better, feel better, and get back to doing the things you love. Whether you’re experiencing long-term discomfort or a recent injury, our friendly team is ready to support you.
Book your appointment today and take the first step towards better health, less pain, and more freedom in everyday life.
