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Christchurch's most-reviewed Osteopathy clinic

Osteopathy in Christchurch for lasting relief

Pain doesn't just affect how you move, it affects every part of your life. Whether it's back pain, headaches, sciatica, a sports injury or pregnancy-related pain, you deserve clear answers, not guesswork. Every treatment starts with a thorough assessment and a clear diagnosis, so you can recover well, stay well, and get back to the life you love.

5.0 from 381+ Google reviews
  • 7

    osteopaths

  • OCNZ

    registered

  • 8,500+

    treated

Lorraine Herity performing cervical osteopathic treatment on an adult male patient seated on a treatment benchLorraine Herity performing a paediatric osteopathic assessment on an infant, with the parent observing alongsideLorraine Herity performing cervical osteopathic treatment on an adult female patient seated on a treatment benchLorraine Herity in consultation with an adult patient at her desk, reviewing assessment findings togetherLorraine Herity treating an adult female patient on a treatment bench with the anatomical reference visible behind

Two ways to help you recover

Whether you need hands-on osteopathic treatment, spinal decompression, or a combination of both, every plan is tailored to your diagnosis, your goals and your recovery.

Osteopath giving hands-on treatment to a patient at Better Health Osteopathy
Hands-on care

Osteopathy

Helping people recover from back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain and sports injuries through hands-on osteopathic treatment, rehabilitation and guidance focused on lasting results.

  • Same-day appointments
  • ACC registered
  • No referral
The Spine MT Core spinal decompression table at Better Health Osteopathy
Arriving 20 July Spine MT Core

Spinal decompression

A personalised Spine MT Core programme, guided by a comprehensive osteopathic assessment and tailored to your diagnosis. We are the only clinic in the South Island with this technology.

  • Sciatica
  • Disc issues
  • Non-surgical

Not sure which is right for you? We will help you decide at your first visit.

Osteopathy for every stage of life

We treat patients from newborns to nineties, meeting you where you are with care that fits your body and your stage of life.

Whatever's slowing you down, we're here to help

From back pain, neck pain and headaches to sciatica, pregnancy-related pain and sports injuries, we take the time to understand what's driving your symptoms and build a personalised plan to help you recover and stay well.

The right treatment starts with the right diagnosis

Your first visit is about answers. We take time to understand not just where it hurts, but why it started, and what will give you the best chance of a lasting recovery.

  1. 1

    You're heard

    We take time to understand your story, your symptoms and your goals.

  2. 2

    We assess

    A thorough hands-on assessment to find what is really driving your pain.

  3. 3

    You understand

    We explain what we find in plain language, and talk through your options together.

  4. 4

    Treatment begins

    Where it is appropriate, treatment starts at that first appointment.

  5. 5

    You leave with a plan

    A clear plan and honest next steps, so you always know what comes next.

Meet the practitioners behind your care

Every one of our osteopaths shares the same philosophy: to listen carefully, understand what's really causing your pain, explain it clearly, and support you with genuine care throughout your recovery.

All of our osteopaths are registered with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand.

A structured pathway to lasting recovery

Recovery is a journey, not a single treatment. Every plan moves through clear stages, from easing the pain to addressing what caused it and building the strength to stay well. We are honest about what helps and how long it takes: steady, noticeable improvement, not endless appointments.

Your recovery pathway
  1. Relieve the pain

    Ease your pain and calm things down, so everyday movement feels easier.

  2. Address the cause

    Find and treat what is driving the pain, to reduce the chance of it returning.

  3. Rebuild strength

    Restore movement, strength and confidence with a plan built around you.

  4. Stay well

    Simple habits and check-ins to keep you moving well and prevent setbacks.

5.0

from 381+ Google reviews

Loved by Christchurch locals for over 10 years

Choosing a healthcare provider is an important decision. We're proud of the long-lasting relationships we've built with Christchurch locals, often caring for two, three, even four generations. Here's what some of them have to say.

  • ★★★★★
    "I started at Better Health Osteopathy 3 weeks ago. Sam, on reception was exceptionally helpful, even calling one of the osteopath's out to answer my questions and putting my mind at ease. Ella, the osteopath assigned to me is amazing. I would totally recommend her and the practice."

    Brian & Linda C.

    2 months ago
  • ★★★★★
    "I’ve been seeing Lorraine for several years now and she is nothing short of a miracle worker. No matter what I walk in with - aches, pains or something that just feels “off” - she always knows exactly what to do and somehow gets my body back on track every single time. Beyond her incredible skill and knowledge, Lorraine is an absolute delight. She creates such a warm, welcoming environment and genuinely cares about her clients. You never feel rushed - she takes the time to listen, understand and treat the root of the problem. As both the clinic owner and manager, it’s clear she pours her heart into Better Health Osteopathy and it shows in every aspect of the experience. If you’re looking for someone you can truly trust with your body, Lorraine is the one. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!"

    Stewart W.

    3 months ago
  • ★★★★★
    "Such an awesome clinic. Fixed me every time and helps me to feel stronger and healthier as a result. Couldn’t recommend more. They are worth their weight in gold."

    Mel S.

    4 months ago
  • ★★★★★
    "Highly recommend. I have been seeing Lorraine at BHO for multiple years now including visits for both of my children as newborns. So handy to now have a second location on Colombo street! Beautiful, clean clinic and the staff are friendly as always. Overall a great experience and well worth it in my opinion."

    Georgia B.

    4 months ago
  • ★★★★★
    "I have been going to Better Health Osteopathy for just on three years. Lorraine, my osteopath, is amazing. She is extremely professional and caring. She has helped me greatly. She listens and explains all the treatment she is going to give me. I have no hesitation in recommending Lorraine and Better Health Osteopathy to anyone who needs treatment. The whole team are welcoming and friendly."

    Jo R.

    6 months ago
  • ★★★★★
    "Lorraine has been a saviour! Was having ongoing sciatic nerve, back issues and aches and pains and she's been incredible in helping to sort it all out! Comes highly recommended."

    Jane T.

    5 years ago
  • ★★★★★
    "Excellent experience ! I came in with pain after lifting something too heavy, and I already feel so much better. The osteopath was very attentive, professional, and explained every step, which really made me feel at ease. The place is clean, calm, and very welcoming. I’ve finally found the place to go to relieve my pain. Highly recommend !"

    Anais Grilo p.

    3 months ago

Have a question?

Choosing the right healthcare provider is an important decision. Here are answers to the questions we're asked most often.

What is an osteopath?

An osteopath is a regulated health practitioner who assesses how your body's joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns are working together. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques (where appropriate), plus education and exercise/rehab advice, to help reduce pain, improve movement, and support recovery. In New Zealand, osteopaths are registered health practitioners with a defined scope of practice.

What's the difference between Osteopathy, physiotherapy, and chiropractic?

All three professions help with musculoskeletal pain and injuries, but they often emphasise different approaches. Osteopathy typically combines whole-body assessment with hands-on manual therapy, movement guidance, and rehab advice. Physiotherapy often emphasises diagnosis, exercise-based rehabilitation, and return-to-function planning. Chiropractic commonly focuses on spinal and musculoskeletal assessment and manual adjustments. Which is "best" depends on your condition, preferences, and what you respond to.

What qualifications does an osteopath have in New Zealand?

To legally practise as an osteopath in New Zealand, a practitioner must hold an approved qualification, be registered with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand, and hold a current Annual Practising Certificate (APC).

What can I expect from my first visit?

Most first appointments include a chat about your symptoms and health history, a physical assessment, an explanation of what's contributing to your issue, treatment on the day (if appropriate), plus advice and exercises you can start at home.

Does Osteopathy hurt?

Osteopathic treatment is usually comfortable, but you may feel mild tenderness during some techniques, especially in sore or tight areas. After treatment, some people feel looser straight away; others may have mild post-treatment soreness for 24-48 hours. If anything feels too intense during treatment, tell your osteopath. Techniques can be modified.

Do you accept ACC?

Yes. Better Health Osteopathy is an ACC-registered provider. We treat both ACC-funded and privately-paying patients across both clinics.

Still have questions? Browse all FAQs →

Ready to get the care you deserve?

Book your first appointment. You'll leave with a clear diagnosis, a personalised treatment plan, and confidence in what comes next.

Same-day appointments ACC handled in-house No referral needed