Osteopaths Ngā kaikōmuru

Osteopaths use gentle techniques such as:

• joint mobilisation
• stretching
• soft tissue massage.

These techniques may:

• improve range of movement
• improve flexibility
• stretch tight tissues
• improve fluid flow
• release tension in muscles.

Osteopaths can treat people who have short-term or chronic (persistent) pain. They can help treat:

• pain — including back, neck, shoulder and limb pain
• injuries to any part of the body
• headaches or migraines
• pregnancy and post-pregnancy related pain
• breathing problems at any age
• repetitive strain injuries (RSI) — also called occupational overuse syndrome
• digestion problems
• incontinence.

They examine you by using their hands to identify:

• the areas or joints that are not working well
• how tense or relaxed your individual muscles are
• swelling and inflammation.

They will then gently apply stretching and joint mobilisation to specific areas of your body. They may give you exercises to do at home.

Osteopaths can also treat pēpi to make sure their muscles and joints are moving evenly and freely.

Your healthcare provider can refer you to an osteopath. You can also visit an osteopath without a referral.

You can search for an osteopath online.

Find an osteopath — Osteopaths New Zealandexternal link

Osteopathy services — Healthpoint

There is normally a charge to see an osteopath. If your injury is the result of an accident and your claim is accepted by ACC, they may partly cover the costs.

Costs may also be covered if you:

• have private health insurance
• are a Work and Income beneficiary who qualifies for financial support
• are an approved war veteran.