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Common questions

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We've answered the questions we hear most often, grouped by topic. If you can't find what you're looking for, give our friendly reception team a call. We're always happy to help.

Grouped by topicPlain-English answersReception on hand

Booking & appointments

Referrals, cancellations, and the practical bits of getting in to see us.

Do I need a referral to see an osteopath?

No. You can book directly with us as a primary healthcare provider. If we think you'd benefit from input from your GP, specialist, or another practitioner, we'll let you know and help guide that.

How do I book?

You can book online in a couple of minutes, or call our friendly reception team on 0800 677 700. Same-day appointments are often available at both clinics.

Can I choose my osteopath?

Yes. You're welcome to book with a specific osteopath. If you're not sure who's the best fit, call reception and we'll match you with the right person for your needs.

Can I book online?

Yes. Online booking is the quickest way to secure a time, day or night, and you'll get a confirmation email with everything you need for your visit.

What if I'm running late?

Call reception as soon as you can. We'll do our best to fit you in for as much of your appointment as possible, but later starts may mean a shorter session, depending on the day's schedule. If you're running significantly late, we may suggest rescheduling.

How do cancellations work?

Life happens. We just ask for as much notice as possible so we can offer the slot to someone else. Late cancellations or no-shows may attract a fee per our cancellation policy. Reception can talk you through the specifics if needed.

Your first visit

What happens on the day, what to wear, and what to expect afterwards.

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.

Will I need to undress?

Not usually. Most treatment can happen with comfortable clothing on. Where access to a specific area is helpful for assessment or treatment, we'll discuss it with you and use draping for comfort and modesty. You're always in control of what you're comfortable with.

How long are appointments?

Standard appointments are 30 minutes. First visits and longer treatments may run longer where needed. We'll let you know what to expect when you book.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing you can move in easily. Loose-fitting clothes (think activewear or layers you can adjust) work best so we can assess movement and access the relevant areas. We'll always work within your comfort.

Is it normal to feel sore after treatment?

Some mild soreness for 24-48 hours after treatment is common, similar to post-exercise feeling. It usually settles on its own. If soreness is sharp, persistent, or worse than expected, contact us so we can adjust your plan.

How many treatments will I need?

It depends on what's driving your symptoms, how long they've been present, and how your body responds. After your first visit, your osteopath should be able to give you a clearer idea of a sensible starting plan.

Can I bring someone with me?

Of course. Partners, parents, support people, or interpreters are welcome. Children bringing a parent (or vice versa) is common. Just let reception know when you book.

What should I do after treatment?

Stay hydrated, move gently, and avoid spiking your usual load (no first-time long runs or heavy gym sessions same-day). Your osteopath will give you specific guidance based on what was treated and what you're working on.

Will I get exercises or self-care advice?

Often yes. Most lasting improvement comes from a combination of treatment and what you do between sessions. We'll keep home recommendations realistic, specific, and tailored to what you'll actually do.

Want more detail? Read our complete first-visit guide →

Fees & ACC

What appointments cost, how to pay, health insurance, and ACC for injuries. Reception confirms the current rate at booking.

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.

Can you lodge my ACC claim for me?

Yes. If your injury is recent and accident-related, we can lodge an ACC45 (new claim) at your first appointment. Bring any details about how the injury happened and we'll do the rest.

What are your fees?

We have separate rates for ACC and private appointments, plus longer first-visit sessions. Current fees are confirmed at booking. Reception is happy to walk you through the specifics on the phone or by email.

Can I claim through my health insurance?

Most New Zealand health-insurance providers cover osteopathic treatment, but cover varies by policy. We provide a receipt at the time of payment that you can submit to your insurer. Check your specific policy for what's reimbursable and any pre-approval requirements.

Do you take EFTPOS or credit?

Yes. We accept EFTPOS, credit cards, and contactless payments. Cash is also fine.

Is a first appointment more expensive?

Sometimes. First visits often run longer because we take a thorough history and do a full assessment. Reception will confirm the rate when you book.

Do I have to pay anything if I'm on ACC?

ACC covers a portion of the appointment cost. Patients pay a surcharge for each visit. The exact surcharge depends on the appointment type; reception will confirm the current amount when you book.

Injured in an accident? Read our ACC guide →

Osteopathy

What an osteopath does, whether it is safe, and how it compares to other care.

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 conditions do you treat?

We treat back and neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint and tendon problems, and sports and workplace injuries, across all ages. If you're not sure whether we can help, give reception a call.

Is Osteopathy safe?

Yes. Osteopathic treatment is generally very safe when performed by a registered practitioner. We screen carefully for red flags at every first visit, modify techniques to your comfort and presentation, and refer you on if anything is outside our scope.

Can babies, children and pregnant women be treated?

Yes. Osteopathy is gentle and adapted to each person, so it's suitable during pregnancy and for babies, children and older adults. Treatment is always tailored to you.

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.

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.

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).

Want the full picture? Learn more about Osteopathy →

Still have a question

Didn't find your answer?

Reception is happy to help. Call or email and we will get back to you, usually within one business day.