Osteo FAQs

What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a hands-on form of healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the body’s structure and function. Using gentle techniques, it aims to restore balance, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural ability to heal.

What can osteopathy help with?

Osteopathy does not treat conditions but it can support a wide range of concerns, including back and neck pain, joint discomfort, headaches/migraines and postural strain. It can also help improve mobility, support recovery from injury, and address chronic digestive, respiratory and reproductive health issues. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, osteopathy looks at the underlying factors influencing your health.

What does an osteopathic treatment look like?

Your first visit includes a thorough health history and an assessment of how your body moves and functions. Treatment is gentle, hands-on, and tailored to what your body presents on that day. Each session is individualized, with the goal of restoring balance and supporting overall function.

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing such as athletic or loose-fitting garments. Osteopathic treatment is done fully clothed so you can feel relaxed throughout your session.

How is osteopathy different from massage therapy?

While both osteopathy and massage therapy use hands-on techniques, their approach and focus differ. Massage therapy often works directly with muscles to relieve tension and promote relaxation.
Osteopathy takes a broader view, assessing how the entire body is functioning and how different areas may be influencing one another. Treatment is guided by the body as a whole, with the aim of addressing the underlying cause of discomfort rather than focusing only on the symptoms.

Are there any contraindications to osteopathy?

Osteopathy is generally a very safe and gentle form of manual therapy. To ensure your treatment is appropriate for you, please inform us of any health concerns in advance by completing your intake form. This allows us to make any necessary adjustments to your care.

Osteopathic treatment is typically not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Can osteopathy be combined with other treatments? 

Yes, osteopathy can be combined with other therapies, especially acupuncture and a gentle, non deep tissue massage. However, it is generally recommended to space treatments out. The body can only integrate small amounts of change at a time, and osteopathic treatment can continue to have effects for up to 72 hours after a session. For this reason, it’s best to avoid multiple treatments on the same day, allowing your body time to respond without interference from other modalities.

Is osteopathy covered by insurance?

Our osteopathic practitioners are OSTCAN certified members with the highest level of osteopathic training in Canada. Therefore, our osteopathic treatments are eligible for coverage by most insurance companies. Please confirm your coverage with your insurance provider prior to your visit. Please note that some companies do not allow direct billing and you are responsible to pay in full at the time of your appointment.