Starting osteopathic care is a positive step toward better mobility, reduced pain, and improved wellbeing. Whether you’re seeking relief from an injury, chronic discomfort, or simply want to support your body’s function, your first visit sets the foundation for personalised care.
Our initial focus is to reduce pain and restore function. From there, we aim to strengthen your body and build resilience to prevent future injuries or relapses.
Before You Arrive
If you have not completed your online consent forms, we recommend arriving about five minutes early to complete this in our waiting room. New patients should allow around 45 minutes for their first appointment to ensure we have time for a thorough assessment and treatment.
If you believe your visit may qualify for ACC support, please let our receptionist know. If you’ve already registered a claim, please bring along any information you have about this claim. If you don’t have these details, don’t worry—we can help retrieve them.
What to Wear & What to Bring
You’ll usually be examined fully dressed, so please wear comfortable clothing that allows movement. Softer or looser fabrics are ideal—jeans can make it difficult for us to palpate effectively.
Bring along:
Parents receiving treatment are welcome to bring children into the room, please bring along something to entertain them so that you can relax and enjoy your treatment.
Your Consultation & Examination
Once you’re settled, you and your support person (if present) will be taken to a private room. Your osteopath will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and occupation—all of which may influence your condition.
A physical examination will follow, which may include:
Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach. For example, knee pain may stem from issues in the lower back, pelvis, or ankle. This comprehensive assessment helps us reach a working diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your consent will be obtained before any treatment begins.
Treatment during your first visit may include:
Your care is customised to your condition. While treatment should not be painful, mild soreness for a day or two afterward is normal. If discomfort persists, please contact us. If your symptoms change, be sure to update your osteopath at your next appointment.
No Referral Needed
Osteopaths are registered primary healthcare providers with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand. You’re welcome to book directly, though referrals from other health professionals are also common. We are ACC providers, so your treatment may be subsidised and we can lodge new claims on your behalf. Depending on your policy, private insurance may also cover osteopathic care.
