Why choose Osteopathy?
We treat the whole person. Treatment focus is on finding the source of the problem, not just treating the symptoms, and seeking out the major contributing factors that created the dysfunction in the first place or are maintaining it. Osteopaths spend more time with their patients, taking a global approach and integrating the whole body into the treatment. We also have many different types of techniques we can use depending on a patients needs or preference. Supportive exercises are often prescribed to reduce pain and help improve posture.

What will treatment be like?
Your first visit begins with your osteopath taking a complete health history. Previous injuries, even those occurring many years ago, even during the birth process, can leave an imprint in the tissues of the body and cause functional and mechanical problems in the present day. Orthopedic tests will be conducted to discover areas of the body such as the spine or pelvis that may be restricted or immobile.The patient will be standing or seated initially for the tests and then seated or lying down on a comfortable table for the treatment.The cranium and sacrum will be evaluated and the viscera (the organs) will be palpated and evaluated. In the first session, many of the assessment tests become treatment techniques so the treatment has actually commenced. This allows you to get a sense of what the treatment will feel like and benefit immediately. A treatment plan will be discussed with you at the end of the session.

What do you wear?

Regular underwear works well (not thongs) or a pair of loose shorts or stretchy tights (and a bra for women). Gowns and shorts are available if needed.

How long are appointments?

They range from 60 to 90 minutes.

What is the cost per treatment?
The fee is $120.00 per hour.

Each person is different depending on how long they have had their condition, what sort of lifestyle they lead and their state of health. We usually recommend three treatments, spaced one to two weeks apart for you to really experience if osteopathy is helping you to feel and function better. You may be able to stop treatment after three sessions if you’re feeling much better. Some people with less serious conditions may feel better right away and only require one or two sessions. Other people with more difficult or chronic conditions may require five treatments and may also require ongoing, less frequent treatments to function well. You are reassessed at every visit and your treatment plan is tailored to meet your individual needs.

No. Not usually. Osteopathy is extremely gentle. We respect the response of the body during treatment. Good communication is essential with me during treatment if there is any discomfort. Usually people feel better after a treatment but sometimes people will feel a bit achy or sore. This can be caused by positive changes taking place in the body, for example, an area of the body that was not moving and has just started to gain some mobility, may experience different sensations caused by improved circulation and nerve supply. Rest and hydrotherapy such as an epsom salt bath, and/or a short ice application (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off and 10 minutes on) will usually alleviate any discomfort.

Is Osteopathy covered by MSP?

At present only osteopathic physicians are covered by MSP. Manual osteopathic practitioners are not covered.

Will my extended health insurance cover osteopathy?
Some insurance companies in B.C. do offer osteopathic coverage but it depends on your plan. Upon payment, a receipt will be issued to you which you can then submit to your insurance company. Please be aware that some insurance companies may require you to have your doctor’s referral if you want your osteopathic treatment to be covered by them.  Please check your individual policy for details.

Do I need to schedule a consultation initially?
No. On the first visit your present condition and health history will be discussed. Next, the physical assessment will be conducted and treatment will begin in the time remaining. This way you can begin to experience the treatment and immediately benefit.