GEELONG OSTEOPATHIC AND HEALTHCARE CLINIC
GEELONG * BARWON HEADS * WERRIBEE
4 Coronation Street
Geelong West
Vic 3218
Ph: 03 52298021
14 George Street
Barwon Heads
Vic 3227
Ph: 03 52298021
291 Princes Highway
Werribee
Vic 3030
Ph: 03 9731 1111
ESTABLISHED 1982
| CONTACT INFORMATION |
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| Address | 4 Coronation STREET
Geelong West
Victoria 3218 |
| Phone | 03 5229 8021 |
SERVICES
Osteopaths:
Dr. K. M. Sturges D.O.,B.Sc.(Hons)Ost.Med.
Dr. J. Parker D.Q.(Hons),B.Sc.(Hons)Ost.Med.
Dr. F Pang DO.
Dr. R. Todd B.Sc.(Clin Sci),M.HSc.(Osteo)
Dr R. Pirritano B.Sc(Clin Sci),M.HSc.(Osteo)
Administration:
Marie Komadina
Shann Potter
Jan (Maree) Brayshaw
Psychologist:
Helen Handsjuk B.Sc. (Hons) (Psych.&Physiol) ,M.A.PsS.
Kevin Sturges
Osteopath
Graduated from the B.S.O. (London) in 1981. Former Osteopathic representative on the Victorian Chiropractors and Osteopaths Registration Board for six years. Former member JEC (Joint Education Committee of Victorian and NSW Registration Boards), Past lecturer and Osteopathic Science Unit Co-ordinator at RMIT. Federal President Australian Osteopathic Association from 1991-1996.Awarded a first class Honours degree for a thesis titled “spinal rotation and the golf swing”. A keen sportsman, Kevin plays pennant golf and “A” grade table tennis. As a participant and practitioner has a particular interest in the treatment and management of sport related injuries.
Janine Parker
Osteopath
Graduated from the B.S.O. (London) in 1981. Former Federal & State Secretary, Australian Osteopathic Association. Lectured in Osteopathic Mechanics on the Osteopathic course at RMIT Former member of the Student Admission Selection Committee at RMIT Current member of Osteopathic Registration Board of Victoria. In 1996 awarded a first class honours degree in Osteopathic Medicine for research on the comparison of various stretching techniques. Manages a dance group in Geelong and has an interest in treatment and management of dance injuries. Janine and Kevin are the joint owners of Geelong Osteopathic & Healthcare Clinic.
Freddie Pang
Osteopath
Graduated from the B.S.O. (London) in 1982. Former Clinic tutor on the B.AppSc. Osteopathic course at RMIT Former Osteopath to the Hong Kong Ballet Company and the Hong Kong Sea Bee Athletic Association and Soccer Club. Freddie has many years of experience as an Osteopath in private practice & has been working at Geelong Osteopathic & Healthcare Clinic since 1987.
Richard Todd
Osteopath
Graduating from Victoria University, Richard has attained a Masters Degree through research investigating the attitudes and understanding of complementary and alternative healthcare therapists towards different manual therapies. Richard has also been extensively involved in numerous sporting fields, both actively and medically, having spent three years as head medical trainer of Caulfied Grammar Amateur Football Club.
Rose Pirritano
Osteopath
Graduating from Victoria University, Rose has attained a Masters Degree through research investigating the Osteopathic treatment of patients with primary dysmenorrhea (period pain). Rose has also been involved with numerous sporting clubs as the head medical trainer including the Williainstown Football Club and Melbourne Knights Soccer Club. Rose also has a special interest in the use of core stabilisation exercises & exercise prescription with a focus on maintaining good health & preventing injury. Si parlo Italiano!
Helen Handsjuk
Psychologist
Offering experienced and confidential counselling for individuals and couples. Specialising in sexual counselling and sexual health issues as velI as; relationships, stress and trauma, anxiety and depression, separation, loss and grief, somatic body therapy. Accredited provider for Workcover, TAC and health funds.
Massage Therapists
The Massage Therapists at (Jeelong Osteopathic & Healthcare Clinic are qualified iii both relaxation and remedial massage. Other modalities also include:— aroma therapy massage, Cupping, moxibustion, shiatsu, sports massage, deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy and myofascial techniques. Kylie, Mark, Rhonda and Kylie-Jayne are all members of the Australian Association of Massage Therapists and are Workcover approved.
Massage therapy at Geelong Osteopathic and Healthcare Clinic is claimable through private health funds. Gift vouchers for relaxation massage or massage therapy are available.
Privacy Act
This Clinic and practitioners recognise and are bound by the legal requirements of the National Privacy Principles from the Privacy Amendment (private sector) Act 2000.
What happens on my first visit?
Our receptionist will complete a new patient card file for you, so for your first visit it is a good idea to arrive a little early. Practitioners usually run on time & your first consultation will take approximately 30 minutes. Any subsequent consultations take between 20 - 30 minutes so appointments are usually made on the hour or half hour.
Your osteopath will take a thorough medical history as it is important to investigate not only the presenting problem but also previous medical conditions which may be relevant. A physical examination is then carried out to fully assess your condition.
You will be asked to undress to your undergarments so that a detailed assessment of your overall posture & state of muscles, ligaments & joints can be performed & the source & nature of your problem found. Instead of just treating symptoms, osteopaths aim to identify & remove mechanical problems which can hinder the body’s natural healing ability.
This examination may include other tests e.g. orthopaedic, neurological or cardiovascular tests. Further investigations such as x-rays or blood tests may also be required. If symptoms suggest a condition not amenable to osteopathic treatment, your osteopath will refer you to a medical doctor or for other appropriate treatment. If appropriate, osteopathic treatment will begin on your first visit.
Osteopathic treatment
Treatment typically involves the specific use of manual procedures such as:
1 .Soft tissue & stretching techniques.
These work on the soft tissues surrounding joints to relax muscles which are hypertonic (too tight), move tissue fluids (oedema) & release myofascial (fibrous tissue) layers. Sometimes deep pressure (inhibition techniques), similar to shiatsu or trigger point therapy are used to release muscle tensilon.
2. Muscle energy technique.
In this technique, contracted muscles are released by alternately being stretched & made to work against resistance.
3. Articulation.
Joints are passively (& usually repeatedly) taken through their range of movement to work on the joints themselves & any surrounding soft tissues e.g. ligaments which may be retricting their movement.
4. Functional technique.
This involves gentle movement of joints in a way which identifies & then challenges the barriers to normal movement until the restriction to motion is released & normal joit function is restored.
5. Manipulation/Mobilisation.
Involves rapidly moving a joint through a very small range of movement to restore the normal range of motion. This technique is well known for the audible release (crack or pop) that is often produced. Osteopathic manipulation is carried out using minimal force in order to maximise safety & minimise patient discomfort.
6. Cranio-sacral technique.
A gentle release technique applied mainly to the skull & sacrum which is particularly suited to young children and the physically frail.
Other treatment modalities are sometimes employed, such as ultrasound, in conjunction with the above. Treatment is designed to be as gentle as possible, but if you are experiencing discomfort at any stage, you should advise your practitioner. Similarly, if there are any procedures or techniques which you do not wish to be used, please let us know.
As part of the treatment programme, patients may also be given advice on diet, exercise, posture, lifestyle and stress. Patients are encouraged to actively participate in the therapeutic process and are often given advice on home management strategies. In many cases, exercises will be prescribed to help manage the condition and prevent recurrence. For Workcover patients, osteopaths work together with rehabilitation officers and structure individual return to work programmes, ergonomic assessment and advice.
Osteopaths believe that simply getting patients to keep returning for more treatment is not the best form of long term preventative care. The key to preventing health problems recurring, and to developing long term solutions, lies in increasing patients’ awareness of the causes of problems and in giving them the help they need to take responsibility for their own health.
Osteopathic treatment is tailored to the requirement of each individual patient and techniques are
selected which are appropriate to the patients needs. Individual osteopaths at the clinic may use different techniques based on their own experience and preferences, however the aim of treatment is the same. We encourage patients to feel comfortable about seeing any osteopath at the clinic so that waiting time for appointments is reduced and discomfort minimised. Patients requesting treatment can usually obtain an appointment on the same day.
Do I need to be referred by my GP?
Referral is not necessary for private patients, those wishing to claim medical insurance or for Workcover or TAC patients. Veterans Affairs patients require a GP referral every 12 months (a D904 referral form is available at the clinic or from your GP). A referral can be arranged for you if necessary. If you have been referred by another heal thcare provider, with your permission we will notify them of your diagnosis, treatment and progress.
Fee Schedule
The fee schedule is displayed at the reception desk. Patients are requested to settle fees at the time of each consultation, however an account can be arranged if necessary. Concession fees are available for those on a pension with a health care card and for children under 16 years old. Please speak to either the receptionist or your treating practitioner if you are having problems affording treatment.
Osteopathic treatment is not available under Medicare hut is recognised by all major health funds tinder ancillary cover. TAC, Workcover and DVA patients are bulk billed directly.
Off work certificates
An osteopath can provide an incapacity certificate which will usually be accepted by your employer in the same way as a medical doctors certificate. Osteopaths can provide ongoing certificates of incapacity for Workcover patients.
X-Rays
We do not routinely x-ray patients. X-rays may be requested in some circumstances, to confirm a diagnosis or exclude certain conditions. All x-rays are taken at Geelong Radiological Clinic.
Osteopaths at Geelong Osteopathic & Healthicare Clinic
Osteopaths at GOHC have rained either at the British School of Osteopathy (London) or from RMIT or VUT (Victoria). Both are five year full time courses in Osteopathy & include many hours of clinical training & extensive study of human anatomy & medical sciences. Osteopaths must be registered with the appropriate Government Registration Board in their state in order to practice Osteopathy. Registered Osteopaths must have conipleted a recognised high level of training, have professional indemnity insurance & are committed to maintaining high standards of care & conduct as required by the registration board. GOHC was established in 1982 & between them our osteopaths have over 70 years of clinical osteopathic experience. At the clinic we are committed to a programme of continued education & professional development as laid down by our Association & the Department of Veterans Affairs of which we are a provider.
10 Good Reasons to see an Osteopath
You might not have to live with it!
Our techniques are safe, gentle & effective.
We offer an individual approach to rehabilitation, exercise & training programmes.
There are no age barriers. We treat babies to senior citizens.
If we can’t help you we will tell you.
We do not recommend ongoing prolonged treatment.
Treatment cost is covered by Workcover, TAC, VA & all major health funds.
It’s nor just a treatment of the spine or spinal manipulation.
The entire consultation time is spent with an Osteopath.
Treatment is drug free. Further treatment can reduce the reliance on medication.
What do Osteopaths treat?
Osteopaths treat a wide range of mechanical problems from simple joint strains to more complex problems involving several areas of the body. Treatment techniques vary depending on the person & the particular problem so it is quite safe for all ages from babies to the elderly. At Geelong Osteopathic & Healthcare Clinic we see patients of all ages with many different problems, from sport, work related or car accident injuries to arthritis & common low back strain. Some typical symptoms that our patients complain of are:pain in or around joints, stiffness and aching.
Back pain is a common complaint treated by osteopaths & in most cases is caused by overstraining the structural components of the back. Whilst this can be extremely painful, most cases are not serious if treated promptly. At this clinic, we are not only interested in getting you back on your feet again, but preventing further recurrence. Back pain can be a problem during pregnancy when significant postural changes occur. We have treated many women throughout their pregnancies, and find that gentle osteopathic treatment can bring great relief whilst having the added advantage of avoiding drugs.
Osteopaths also treat joints & muscles in all other parts of the body, from the big toe to the little finger! For sports people, if you have a problem which is preventing you from performing at your best, osteopathic treatment can help you reach your peak level of fitness. Through careful diagnosis & treatment we aim to promote a quick recovery with minimal loss of fitness or time away from sport. Treatment also includes advice on injury prevention & exercises.
When treating employees who have been injured at work, we aim to keep time away from work to a minimum & can structure individual return to work & modified duty programmes in conjunction with rehabilitation officers. Problems caused by postural strain e.g. sitting at a computer all day, respond well to osteopathic treatment.
Osteopaths also treat other conditions in which a mechanical component may be present, like asthma, migraines or headaches, nausea & indigestion. Problems in different body organs can produce referred pain in distant areas; conversely, musculo-skeletal problems can cause symptoms which mimic other disorders e.g. headaches caused by neck problems. Osteopathic treatment can often give complete relieffrom symptoms when other remedies have failed.
Will I need a lot of treatment?
Many patients feel significant improvement after only one or two treatments, but it depends a lot on your problem, your general health, age & other lifestyle factors such as occupation. It is usually best to allow things to settle down after treatment for a few days, so initially we usually see patients on a weekly basis. As your problem resolves, the time between visits is increased.
Osteopathy -What’s the difference?
Osteopaths don’t just assess where your symptoms are e.g. if you have knee pain, an osteopath will firstly assess whether it is due to tissue damage in the knee itself, or is referred pain from e.g. the hip or low back. We will also need to analyze your posture to see whether there is undue stress or strain being placed on the knee from other areas of the body e.g. the foot, in which case gait analysis may by necessary. It is often other factors, preventing normal healing from occurring, which need to be treated to allow a problem to completely resolve. We also identify any secondary effects of injury e.g. avoiding weight bearing on the bad knee can lead to problems developing in the good knee, back or other areas. It is this whole body, wholistic approach that has been the basis of Osteopathy’s success over the years.
Can Osteopathy help me?
Still unsure? Talk to our staff at the clinic or one of the osteopaths here. Your osteopath will advise you on the initial consultation whether your problem should respond to osteopathic treatment or not. If not, we will refer you for further investigation or other treatment.
How did Osteopathy begin?
Osteopathy was established in the USA in about 1874 as an alternative system of medicine by a medical doctor Andrew Taylor Still. Dr. Still was dissatisfied with the ineffectiveness of century medicine which focused Ofl the patients’ disease. He founded a philosophy of medicine, Osteopathy, from Hippocratic principles, which focused on the whole patient. Dr. Still’s key concepts of Osteopathic Medicine which are still followed by Osteopaths today are:
*Wholistic Medicine
Dr Still recognised the close relationship between body structure & organic functioning & stressed the importance of the musculo-skeletal system (bones, joints & muscles) for health. He discovered that many diseases were associated with changes in the musculo-skeletal system (e.g. of joint mobility or muscle tone) & that the body had a better chance of recovering from disease & of remaining well if the musculoskeletal system was functioning normally. Dr. Still developed manual techniques to treat the musculo-skeletal system & found that both mechanical & other health problems responded to his treatment. So, while Osteopaths can treat common musculo-skeletal problems such as low back pain, joint & nuiscle strains, they care for a persons overall health by considering the interdependence of all body systems.
*Self Healing. The body has an inherent healing ability and can resist disease. Osteopaths aim to initiate, support and stimulate this natural tendency towards health. Many of our patients ask whether they will need ongoing Osteopathic treatment. Given that the body has the capability to look after itself, there is no reason to have prolonged treatment, there are no structural problems and it is looked after reasonably well. There are times, such as an unfairly stressful occupation, or as a result of underlying conditions when repeat visits may be necessary or helpful, but this is at the discretion of the patient. Dr Still used the motto: ‘find it, fix it and leave it alone’. Osteopaths believe that the body does not need continuous interference to he healthy, either from drugs or from indefinite manipulation.
*Preventative Medicine
Dr Still stressed that correct nutrition, keeping fit and environmental factors affected health as well as the patients’ mental & emotional state. Osteopaths aim to help each patient function at their optimum efficiency.
*Palpation & Manipulation
Dr Still recognised the importance of palpation as an aid to diagnosis. He used manipulation as a less intrusive ftrm of treatment than others which were available at the time.
In the US, Osteopathic Medicine has continued from its historical beginnings as a complete system ofhealthcare and Osteopathic Physicians hold the same practice rights as Medical Doctors. They still stress the unity of all body systems, emphasize the musculo-skeletal system & view palpation & manipulation as an aid to diagnosis & treatment ofvarious illnesses.
In Australia & Europe, Osteopaths have become specialists in manual treatment of mainly mechanical problems, while still recognising the importance & involvement of the musculo-skeletal system on other systems within the body. Osteopaths specialise in the study of human mechanics so they are able to diagnose, treat and manage mechanical problems that have occurred in the musculo-skeletal system & restore optimal function to the body.
Service Categories
Acupressure, Acupuncture, Aromatherapy, Counselling, Deep Tissue Massage, Flower Essences, Herbalists, Homoeopaths, Iridologists, Life Coaching, Myofascial Release Therapy, Naturopaths, Nutrition, Osteopathy, Pregnancy Massage, Remedial Massage, Remedial Therapies, Shiatsu, Sports Injury Therapy, Sports Massage, Swedish Relaxation Massage, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Trigger Point Therapy, Weight Loss, Womens Health
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