April is Osteopathy Awareness Month, a time dedicated to helping Australians learn more about osteopathy and the role registered osteopaths play within the healthcare system. This month focuses on education, understanding and supporting informed decision‑making about your health.
At whatisosteo, we provide clear, evidence‑informed information to help you better understand osteopathy, what osteopaths do, and what to expect if you choose to visit a registered osteopath.
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of allied healthcare that takes a whole‑body approach, recognising that the body’s structure and function are closely connected. Registered osteopaths are university‑trained health professionals who assess how different parts of the body work together and how factors such as movement, posture and lifestyle may influence overall wellbeing.
Osteopaths commonly use a range of hands‑on techniques, along with advice and education, to support a person’s understanding of their body. Each consultation is tailored to the individual, and whether osteopathy is appropriate will depend on your personal circumstances. Please explore the website to find out more.
What to expect at an osteopathy appointment
An osteopathy appointment usually begins with a discussion about your general health, lifestyle and relevant medical history. This is followed by a physical assessment, which may include observing posture and movement or performing gentle clinical tests, depending on your reason for attending.
Your osteopath will explain what they are doing and seek your consent throughout the consultation.
What should you wear?
Wearing comfortable, flexible clothing can help your osteopath assess movement and posture more easily. In some cases, you may be asked to remove outer layers of clothing to allow examination of a particular area.
When preparing for your appointment, consider:
- Loose‑fitting clothing that allows you to move easily
- Comfortable, appropriate underwear
- Avoiding restrictive garments such as tight jeans or belts
Your osteopath will explain what is required during the appointment and will always discuss options to maintain comfort and dignity.
You can read more about preparing for an appointment in our blog.
Why Osteopathy Awareness Month matters
Osteopathy Awareness Month encourages conversations about musculoskeletal health, movement and wellbeing. It provides an opportunity to learn how different healthcare professionals, including osteopaths, contribute to supporting people’s health across all stages of life.
It is also a reminder that if you have questions about osteopathy, speaking with a registered practitioner can help you understand whether it may be suitable for you.
Explore our Osteopathy Awareness Month blogs
Throughout April, we encourage you to explore our additional resources:
- Celebrate Osteopathy Awareness Month this April
- What is osteopathy?
- What to expect from your appointment
- Biomechanics and osteopathy
Choosing an Osteopathy Australia osteopath
Osteopathy Australia members are qualified and registered osteopaths who are committed to high standards of professional care.
To find an Osteopathy Australia practitioner near you, visit: Find an Osteo
Picture credit: Whole Health Osteopathy and Michelle Jarni Photography