Osteopathic Massage Melbourne

Osteopathic Massage is remedial massage applied with osteopathic knowledge.

Osteopathic massage is a holistic ‘whole body’, soft-tissue focused form of massage that incorporates both osteopathic and stretching techniques.

Osteopathic massage aims to free up restrictions or stiffness within muscles and joints to not only improve the body’s movement and posture but also blood flow and lymphatic drainage for improved tissue health.

Osteopathic massage on calf muscles

Conditions that may benefit from osteopathic massage include:

  • Lower back, neck and shoulder pain
  • Muscular aches and stiffness
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Stress-related tension
  • Poor posture and postural concerns
  • Sporting or repetitive strain injuries
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Pregnancy-related back pain
  • Sports injuries
  • ….and much more!
Osteopath applying pressure to Melbourne adult's back

What is the difference between osteopathy vs. osteopathic massage?

Osteopathic massage may be a good option for those who respond well to massage and stretching and are looking for a more ‘all over body’, holistic osteopathic approach rather than a focus on any specific injury or ailment. Osteopathic massage is also ideal if you’re in need of a general treatment for non-specific aches, pains and physical fatigue — rather than an in-depth osteopathic treatment for a specific issue or injury.

If you do have a specific injury, illness, or pain, traditional osteopathic treatment is a better option. Osteopathic treatment involves a comprehensive case history and clinical examination to determine the cause of pain, along with an individualised approach to treatment including joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, stretching, and exercise prescription. Please ask your osteopath if in doubt about what type of treatment would work best for your situation.

What to expect from your osteopathic massage session:

Our osteopaths,  Paris, James, Jess and Rebecca, perform osteopathic massage in addition to their osteopathic consultations.

Your first consultation will include a short case history followed by a physical examination assessing your posture, muscle balance, spinal alignment, and joint function of pelvis and spine. The osteopathic massage technique used is quite relaxing but in-depth at the same time. Your osteopath will use therapeutic massage techniques and gentle rocking motions to influence joint mobility and muscle relaxation, focusing on specific areas, and the body as a whole. As restrictions in the body are located, they are massaged, stretched and ‘rocked’ to relax and release muscles and joints, and improve blood flow to the area.

Most of our clients report feeling quite relaxed and refreshed at the end of their osteopathic massage session. You may want to go home and relax afterwards to allow your body to integrate the treatment.

Osteopathic massage consultations may also include homework including postural advice and exercise or stretching programs.

Private health insurance claims are available under osteopathy items.

Melbourne Osteopath treating shoulder injury

WHERE ARE WE BASED?

Our clinic is located in Yarraville, AUS, just 7km west of Melbourne's city center at 30 Schild Street, Yarraville, Victoria. Nestled within the bustling Yarraville shopping district, our clinic offers a private yet inviting space, ensuring you feel relaxed during your visit. Kids are always welcome to accompany you during your appointments. We have toys and drawing materials on hand to entertain them while our osteopath discusses your or your child’s needs. If you require assistance finding or reaching our location, please feel free to reach out!

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The Growing Bones Difference

We have a holistic team of practitioners that work together to ensure that we're getting you the best results for your pain, mobility and quality of life. Here's just a few things that set us apart from other Osteos in Melbourne.

3 osteopaths smiling with coffee in Growing Bones Melbourne clinic

Family-centred care

Young families come to us because we have a special interest in working with infants, children & pregnant women. We have all undertaken relevant postgraduate study and we have vast experience in the area.

97% 5-star feedback

Our customers love us because of our exceptional, highly qualified practitioners, our warm & friendly manner with adults & children alike, and how well we explain things.

Education & empowerment

We empower you to feel confident about the wellness journey you’re on. We help you to gain clarity on your treatment plan and teach you ways to continue the healing outside of the Clinic so it easily fits in with your lifestyle.

Our Osteopaths Who Perform Osteopathic Massage

Paris MacGibbon

Registered Osteopath
Special interests: children (5+ years), pregnancy, adults, dry needling

Rebecca Gunn

Registered Osteopath
Special interests: adults, children (5+ years), pregnancy, sports, dry needling

Jess Loughnan

Registered Osteopath
Special interests: adults, children (5+ years), pregnancy, sports, dry needling

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We want you to feel completely comfortable using our service. If you still have any queries, please Contact Us.

What is osteopathic massage?

Osteopathic massage is a hands-on therapy used by our osteopaths to enhance circulation, alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve mobility. Unlike traditional massage, which mainly focuses on relaxation, osteopathic massage adopts a whole-person approach, addressing the body as an interconnected whole.

It integrates various techniques, from joint mobilisation to stretching, aiming not just to relax but to restore the body's natural function and balance.

Osteopathic massage is a more medically-oriented form of massage, often used in conjunction with other osteopathic treatment methods to provide comprehensive care and help you in recovery.

How is osteopathic massage different from regular massage?

Osteopathic massage and regular massage may seem similar as they both target the body's soft muscle tissues. But they're different in both purpose and approach.
Osteopathic massage looks at the whole body, aiming to ease pain and improve how the body functions as a unit. This means that an issue in one part of the body can affect the function of other areas. For instance, a misaligned spine can lead to headaches.
It often includes joint mobilisation and is based on the idea that the body's parts and their functions are tightly connected.
While it boosts blood flow and gives immediate comfort, its main goal is deeper body balance. For instance, if a person has chronic neck pain, rather than just massaging the neck to relieve tension, an osteopath might look into posture, spine alignment, and other factors that could be contributing to the pain.
Achieving deeper body balance means addressing these interconnected issues to ensure all parts of the body are harmoniously working together. This means ensuring that the body's structural elements (like bones, joints, and muscles) are in proper alignment and function optimally. This not only helps in relieving pain but can also improve movement and flexibility.
On the other hand, regular massage mainly focuses on the relaxation and rejuvenation of muscles, helps relax muscles, reduces stress, boosts blood flow, and provides instant comfort.
So, while both offer health benefits, osteopathic massage works on deeper body balance, and regular massage focuses on quick relaxation.

What conditions can osteopathic massage help with?

It's effective for a variety of conditions, including lower back, neck and shoulder pain, muscular stiffness, headaches, poor posture, carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries, and many more.

What should I expect during my osteopathic massage session?

During an osteopathic massage appointment, the osteopath begins by taking a detailed history of the patient's health and specific concerns.
The practitioner then conducts a thorough physical examination, often observing posture, movement, and areas of sensitivity or tension.
Based on this assessment, the osteopath employs hands-on techniques, combining soft tissue massage, some gentle rhythmic joint articulation, and stretching to address identified issues. The treatment aims to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore the body's natural balance.
Throughout the session, the osteopath may also offer insights and advice on posture, exercises, or lifestyle changes to support recovery and ongoing health.

Will I be given any exercises or advice to follow after my massage?

Yes, osteopathic massage consultations often come with postural advice and exercise or stretching recommendations.

I'm unsure if I need osteopathic massage or traditional osteopathic treatment. What should I do?

If you're uncertain about the type of treatment that best suits your needs, please consult with one of our osteopaths who will guide you to the appropriate service.

Why should I choose Growing Bones for osteopathic massage?

Our clinic offers a team of practitioners, care for families, a fantastic customer satisfaction rate, and a focus on educating and empowering our clients.

How long will my appointment take?

The initial Osteopathic Massage consultation is 60 mins), and subsequent appointments are 45mins

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows ease of movement and accessibility to the injured or assessment area.

Do I have to remove my clothes?

No. For some osteopathic treatments, you may be asked to remove some clothing so the osteopath can easily access and assess the area needing attention. However, you'll always be provided with a gown or towel for your comfort. It's essential to wear comfortable and appropriate underwear. If you're not comfortable removing certain clothing, let your osteopath know. They will accommodate your preferences and ensure you're at ease during the session.

How much does an Osteopathic massage appointment cost?

It’s $140 for the initial Osteopathic Massage consultation (60 mins), and $130 for subsequent appointments (45mins).

Please note that these prices are subject to change. For the most current pricing information, we recommend checking our online booking page. This ensures that you always have access to the latest pricing details when scheduling your appointment.

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