Frequently asked questions about osteopathy.
What happens in an osteopathic treatment?
Do I need a referral to be seen?
'Cranial Osteopathy' v's. 'Cranio-Sacral Therapy'
How much does a treatment cost?
Is osteopathy covered by insurance?
Is osteopathy safe?
Some more information..
Common conditions seen by osteopaths:
Osteopaths are traditionally viewed as musculoskeletal experts but treat a much wider variety of healthcare issues. Therefore, complaints commonly presented in an osteopathic clinic are neck, shoulder low back and hip pain, as well as symptoms of sciatica, sports injuries, tension, headaches, arthritic pain and neuralgia. Sacro-iliac dysfunction and symphysis pubis are often presented, particularly post trauma or during pregnancy. Cranial therapy (commonly referred to as cranio-sacral) has clinical evidence of efficacy for patients of all ages but particularly effective for infants and children when presenting with conditions such as reflux and colic.
Other conditions include:
What happens in a treatment?
A full case history will be taken, diagnosis and treatment (where possible) your presenting complaint will be provided. You may need to undress to undergarments so suitable attire is required! Information in relation to exercise and lifestyle choices related to condition and may coordinate with your general practitioner in order to refer for further imaging (x-ray, CT MRI, blood tests) in order to clarify any concerns that I may have.
Do I need a referral to be seen?
No. Osteopaths are autonomous primary healthcare providers, so you can self-present to an osteopath. If I have health concerns or believe your treatment will benefit, I may refer to your general practitioner for further imaging or tests (e.g. x-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, blood tests).
The difference between 'Cranial Osteopathy' and 'Cranio-Sacral Therapy:
The European School of Osteopathy graduates have undergone three-year instruction in cranial osteopathy (sometimes referred to as Osteopathy in the Cranial Field (OCF)) and clinical training as part of their recognised qualification. 'Cranio-sacral therapists' are not osteopaths, but work on the same mechanism within the body. The Cranial Acadamy in the USA has listed notable differences between these treatments.
Consultation information:
Appointment bookings are provided by phoning 086 7755775 or e-mail jim@jimosullivan.ie. If you are unsure that your condition is suitable for osteopathic treatment, then contact me and I would be happy to discuss in confidence treatment options. Initial consultation lasts for one hour, involves documenting your medical history, a medical examination and treatment - if appropriate. Initial consultations are €70. Subsequent consultations will take thirty minutes and are €60. Payment is accepted by cheque or cash and is settled at the end of each appointment. Please note: 24 hours notice is appreciated in the event of an appointment requiring rescheduling.
Osteopathic Insurance cover:
Osteopathic treatment is included in healthcare plans provided by the following health insurance companies:
Please refer to your policy for the level of osteopathic cover.
Is osteopathy safe?
Yes! Osteopathy aims to alleviate the symptoms of common (and uncommon) conditions for patients of all ages. Because of the wide variety if techniques preformed by osteopaths, treatment can be tailored to each individual. Osteopathy is a regulated profession, becoming the first complementary health care profession to gain statutory recognition in the UK in 1993. Osteopaths registered with either the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) or the Osteopathic Council of Ireland (OCI) have had a minimum of four year B.Sc. or Masters Degree qualification with over 1000 hours of clinical experience, medical malpractice insurance and adhere to a professional code of conduct.
Some further information:
The following links to external sites provide extensive osteopathic information.
Should you have any other queries, please feel free to contact me using the contact details below or those in the contact page.