Frequently Asked Questions
ITS NOT MAGIC! ITS SIMPLY, OSTEOPATHY!
WHAT IS OSTEOPATHY?
A manual, drug free therapy that focuses on restoring motion and symmetry to the body, aligns with the idea that proper structural alignment can support the body's natural ability to heal and regulate itself. The individualized care aspect recognizes the uniqueness of each patient, considering factors such as medical history and lifestyle in the development of treatment plans. Overall, osteopathy is rooted in a holistic philosophy that structure and function are interrelated and the body is a dynamic unit of function.
WHAT HEALTH ISSUES CAN OSTEOPATHY ADDRESS?
Osteopathy focuses on finding the root cause of your dysfunction by focusing on the leading principals that the body is a dynamic unit of function, structure and function are inter-related, the body is self-healing and self-regulating. By restoring motion and symmetry throughout, the body is better able to focus on functioning and healing rather than holding its structure through compensatory patterns. With that being said - osteopathy doesn't treat specific conditions/symptoms, they treat the body to allow the innate healing abilities thrive.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING AN OSTEOPATHIC TREATMENT?
Osteopathic treatment is a gentle, drug-free MANUAL therapy tailored to your individual needs. Each session begins with an in-depth review of your health history followed by a comprehensive assessment in various positions—standing, seated, and lying down (supine, prone, or on your side). Your osteopath will use a hands-on approach, sometimes leveraging your arms and legs to aid in treatment. Sessions include deep breathing, active muscle contractions, and most importantly, relaxation. Osteopathy is versatile and can accommodate diverse conditions, including recent surgeries, pregnancy, or mobility challenges, without the need for a standard treatment table.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT?
Post-treatment experiences can vary based on individual needs and the depth of underlying patterns. Osteopathy is a gentle therapy that aims to put your body into a parasympathetic, or “rest and digest,” state, so you may feel more relaxed. The first 24-48 hours is an adjustment period where your body begins to adapt to new patterns. It’s normal to feel tired, a bit sore, or hungrier than usual. Gentle walks are recommended, while strenuous activities should be avoided for 24 hours. A follow-up visit is advised about a week later to evaluate your response and refine your treatment plan.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY OSTEOPATHY APPOINTMENT?
Please wear clothes that you are comfortable in and are able to move around in. This includes sweatpants, sweaters, t-shirts, shorts, leggings and athletic pants. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP WEARING JEANS AND BELTS, these do restrict your range of motion and will not allow for accurate assessment. However, I will proceed if you are wearing jeans... its just not the most motion friendly :)
DOES MY INSURANCE COVER OSTEOPATHY VISITS?
YES! Osteopathic assessment & treatments are now covered by majority on insurance and extended health benefits. Please check in with your insurance provider prior to your appointments to confirm osteopathic coverage as well as how much so we can better assess your treatment plan accordingly.
DO YOU OFFER DIRECT BILLING?
Yes, I now offer direct billing for most insurance companies! While many insurance plans cover direct billing for osteopathic treatments, some may not yet include this option. If your policy doesn’t support direct billing, you can manually submit your claim for reimbursement if you have coverage. I am optimistic that direct billing will be available for all insurance plans in the near future.
I DONT HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE, DO YOU OFFER A SLIDING SCALE?
Absolutely, at Welch Osteopathy, I understand that financial constraints can be a barrier to accessing healthcare. While I believe osteopathy treatments are an investment in your health and future, I also recognize that cost can be a concern. That's why I offer sliding scale options for those without extended health benefits or facing financial challenges. My priority is to make sure everyone can receive the care they need, regardless of their financial situation. If you have any questions about sliding scale fees or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your health and well-being are important to me, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
FREE CONSULTATION CALLS
Have you been told osteopathy is like voodoo magic? Do you have questions about what osteopathy really is? Are you curious about how osteopathic treatment can be tailored to your individual needs? Learn about the unique benefits of osteopathy and discover how it can enhance your well-being. To initiate positive change in your health, schedule your complimentary consultation call today.