An Osteopath, or Osteopathic Manual Practitioner in BC, palpate by gently, yet intentionally, touching the tissues or systems under examination. With experience, Osteopathic Manual Practitioners learn to palpate not just superficially but also very deeply within the body. This sensory information is received through touch receptors on the fingertips and palms, and through the proprioceptors (motion and position sensors) embedded deeply within the joints of the hands, wrists, arms, and even the shoulders. ​ The ability to detect minute modifications in the quality of the tissues is the assessment skill that allows the Osteopathic Manual Practitioner to help prioritize a patient's course of treatment. These tissue “qualities” include congestion, dehydration, scarring, stiffness, density, or loss of resilience, as well as motility which is an infinitesimal movement inherent to all living tissues. It is this sensing of the quality of the tissue, in combination with the position, mobility, and vitality of the tissues, that allows Osteopathic Manual Practitioners to determine the tissues or systems that need immediate attention.

Osteopathy is seen as a branch of manual medicine that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body's systems and the body's ability to heal itself. It focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its impact on overall health. Osteopaths use a variety of manual techniques, such as manipulation, massage, and stretching, to diagnose, treat, and prevent various health issues. The underlying philosophy of osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has its own self-regulating mechanisms, and when these mechanisms are disrupted, illness or dysfunction can occur. Osteopaths aim to restore balance and function to the body to promote health and well-being.

Osteopathy is only the true wholistic manual therapy. A dysfunction in one part of the body can have a major impact on the wellbeing on the rest of the body. Osteopathy works with your own energy. We work with the vitality or the energy that is present within you without using undo force. Osteopathic Practitioners study for years to develop highly sensitive palpation to be able to listen to what your body is saying. Osteopathic practitioners are extensively trained in manual techniques to treat all body structures: muscles, fascia, joints, organs and nerves. Osteopathy has a unique methodology through a study of anatomy, physiology and the interrelationships of all systems of the body. We calm the nervous system, improve circulation and assist your body’s ability to move.

Some of the most common complaints people consult an osteopathic practitioner for: Low back pain Neck pain Hip pain Knee pain Foot pain Sciatica Sports injuries Asthma Post-COVID/Long COVID Digestive disturbances Sprains and strains Degenerative joint disease (arthritis) Biomechanical impairments Concussions Headaches and migraines Pre and post-surgical rehab Chronic pain

You do not need a doctor’s referral unless it is required by your insurance company.

The initial assessment is at least 60 minutes and is $180 plus GST. Follow-up durations vary in length, where 60 minutes is $180 plus GST, 45 minutes is $150 plus GST, and 30 minutes is $100 plus GST.

Many extended benefit plans include provisions for osteopathy services , especially when administered by an OsteopathyBC member. To ascertain the precise coverage under your plan, we advise consulting your benefits provider. Osteopathic manual therapy falls outside the scope of coverage provided by MSP, given our non-physician status. Kindly note that payment is expected at the time of your appointment, and you will receive a receipt for potential submission to your insurance company for reimbursement.

We are able to direct bill to providers who are set up with the Telus Health portal. Please note that payment is due at the time of your appointment. You will be issued with a receipt which you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.