Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Health Within Osteopathy is an osteopathic clinic based in Westmere, Auckland, providing evidence-informed osteopathic care for adults, babies and families. This page answers common questions patients ask about osteopathic treatment, what to expect, and conditions we commonly treat.
About Health Within Osteopathy
Where are you located?
We're located at 141 Garnet Road, Westmere, Auckland. We're easy to reach from Westmere, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Pt Chevalier, Kingsland, and surrounding central suburbs.
What are your opening hours?
Monday to Friday: 9:00am–5:30pm. Saturday: 9:00am–1:30pm. Sunday: closed.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes there is plenty of parking nearby, and we're also accessible by public transport.
Do you accept new patients?
Yes. New patients are welcome, and we'll guide you through everything you need to know when you book.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book online through our website or contact the clinic directly and we'll help you find a suitable time.
Who will I see?
You'll be treated by a registered osteopath. Our team provides calm, thorough care, and we tailor treatment to your age, symptoms, comfort level, and goals. All of our practitioners are registered osteopaths and ACC providers.
What we do
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is hands-on healthcare focused on how your body moves and functions. We assess the whole body and use manual treatment, movement guidance, and practical self-care advice to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery.
What conditions do you treat?
We help patients with a wide variety of conditions. We commonly help with back and neck pain, muscle and joint pain, sports injuries, headaches, pregnancy-related discomfort, and a wide range of mobility and strain problems. We also support babies, children, and adults with gentle, individualised care.
Do you treat headaches and migraines?
Yes. We often see people with headaches and migraines. We assess your neck, upper back, jaw, posture, breathing mechanics, and relevant lifestyle factors that may contribute. We'll also discuss red flags and refer you for medical review if your presentation suggests it's needed.
Do you treat sports injuries?
Yes. We work with sports injuries and training-related pain, including acute strains and longer-term overuse issues. We aim to help you return to activity safely with hands-on treatment, load management guidance, and exercises where appropriate.
Do you treat pregnancy and postnatal concerns?
Yes. We regularly support people during pregnancy and postnatally. Treatment is adapted to each stage and focuses on comfort, mobility, and reducing strain through the pelvis, back, ribs, and surrounding soft tissues.
Do you treat babies and children?
Yes. We provide gentle osteopathic care for babies and children. We explain everything clearly, keep treatment age-appropriate, and always work within your child's comfort.
Our treatment approach
What is cranial osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy (Osteopathy in the Cranial Field) is a gentle style of osteopathic treatment using subtle contact to help reduce tension and support the body's self-regulation. Many people find it deeply relaxing. We use cranial approaches with babies, children, and adults when appropriate.
Do you "crack" joints?
We use a range of techniques, from very gentle methods (including cranial osteopathy) through to more direct structural techniques when suitable. If you prefer to avoid joint clicking techniques we will treat you without them.
Is treatment painful?
Treatment is usually comfortable and often relaxing. Some techniques can feel tender on sensitive areas, but we work within your tolerance and adjust as needed. You're always in control and we welcome feedback throughout the session.
Is osteopathic treatment safe?
Safety is central to how we practise. We take a careful history, assess you thoroughly, and choose techniques appropriate for your health, age, and presentation. If we identify signs that you need medical review or another provider, we'll explain why and help you take the next step.
Your first appointment and what to expect
What happens at my first appointment?
Your first appointment includes a detailed conversation about your symptoms, health history, and goals, followed by a physical assessment that may include posture, movement, and relevant clinical tests. We explain what we find in plain language, discuss a plan, and provide the appropriate treatment. We'll also give you practical advice and/or exercises to support your recovery between visits.
How long is an appointment?
Appointment lengths vary from half an hour to an hour, depending on what you book and what you need. If you're unsure which option to choose, contact us and we'll guide you.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in (for example, shorts/leggings and a t-shirt). Depending on what we're assessing, we may need to see or access the area involved, but we always prioritise your comfort and privacy.
What should I bring?
If you have relevant information such as imaging reports, specialist letters, or a list of medications, bring them along or have them available on your phone. If you're booking for a child, it can help to bring any notes about symptoms, routines, and what aggravates or eases things.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You're welcome to bring a support person if it helps you feel comfortable, and parents/caregivers are welcome to be present for children's appointments.
After treatment
What might I feel after my appointment?
It's common to feel looser, lighter, or more relaxed. Some people feel mild soreness or fatigue for a day or two, similar to how you might feel after exercise. This usually settles quickly.
What should I do after treatment?
We generally recommend keeping things gentle for the rest of the day, staying hydrated, and following any advice or exercises we provide. If you have training or an event coming up, tell us and we'll tailor the plan to suit.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on your goals, how long the issue has been present, your health history, and how your body responds. Some people notice change quickly. Others benefit from a short course of care plus a home plan. We'll review progress and adjust as we go.
ACC and insurance
Are you ACC registered?
Yes, we are ACC registered.
Can you lodge an ACC claim for me?
Yes, if your issue is injury-related and meets ACC criteria, we can lodge your claim as part of your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral for ACC treatment?
No. You can book directly with us for an ACC injury.
Do you work with Southern Cross or other private health insurance?
We are Southern Cross providers. Cover depends on your plan, so we recommend checking your policy details. We can lodge the claim with Southern Cross for you.
Fees, cancellations, and admin
How much does an appointment cost?
Fees vary by appointment type (new patient vs follow-up) and whether your appointment is ACC or private, and are in the range of $60 to $135. You can contact us to confirm the pricing for your visit.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer the time to someone else.
Choosing the right care
How do I know if osteopathy is right for me?
If you're dealing with pain, tension, restricted movement, recurring strain, or you're not sure what's driving your symptoms, we can assess you and give you clarity. If we believe another provider or urgent medical review is more appropriate, we'll tell you and help you understand the next step.
Do you work with other health professionals?
Yes. When needed, we collaborate with GPs, midwives, physiotherapists, trainers, and other practitioners to support your care.
Still have questions?
If you'd like help choosing an appointment type, want to check ACC eligibility, or aren't sure whether we're the right fit, contact Health Within Osteopathy and we'll point you in the right direction.