ABOUT US
Situated in Narrabeen by the lake on Sydney’s scenic Northern Beaches, Beaches Osteopathic Centre was formed by practice principal Tony Tranfield in 1999. The practice moved to its present site in Wellington Street, which was officially opened by the then Minister for Health & Ageing, The Honorable Tony Abbott MP in 2005.
Whilst we manage all manner of musculoskeletal complaints, we have gradually become more specialised in problems relating to balance, coordination and movement.
Our Philosophy
A patient-centric approach.
A patient-centric, rather than disease-centric, which means our team assesses and treats each patient according to their individual situation, needs and goals.
Patient Focussed
We have specialised diagnostic equipment that provides us with the best of evidence based practice and outcome measurement.
For further information about our practice or on how to subscribe to receive our regular newsletter, please call our front desk on 02 9913 7900.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a referral from my GP? No
All you need is to telephone or call in for an appointment. We will see emergencies on the same day. We can contact your GP if you wish.
Is osteopathy covered on Medicare? Yes
It is covered under the Medicare Plus Scheme called “Enhanced Primary Care”. Medicare Plus was implemented as part of the Safety Net to enable people with chronic and/or long standing conditions who were seeing an Osteopath, Dentist, Podiatrist or other “Allied Health Care Practitioner” to receive a rebate from Medicare. People not in a health fund or whose health fund rebate has run out may be eligible.
In order to receive a rebate you need to have been referred by a GP, and provide the paperwork to the practice. The total number of rebated consultations permitted per year is 5.
Can I claim osteopathy on my private health insurance? Yes
Many private health insurance funds give benefit for osteopathic treatment. Some companies will reimburse the total fee or pay a percentage of the costs. Contact the help line of your insurance company who will explain the actual benefits and methods of claim for your individual policy.
Will I be manipulated?
This is probably the most over emphasised and misunderstood part of osteopathic treatment. A typical osteopathic consultation lasts between 20-30 minutes and joint manipulation takes seconds. Most of the treatment will comprise of muscle and connective tissue stretches, joint articulations and other osteopathic procedures. However where a joint is not moving normally, it may require a manipulation to improve its range of motion.
Manipulation is a highly specific procedure applied with a great deal of sensitivity and skill. Osteopaths are trained to recognise conditions that are inappropriate for manipulation.
Whilst osteopathic manipulation is a safe and effective form of treatment some patients feel uncomfortable about having it performed. In this case there are other osteopathic procedures that are effective though in some cases this might lengthen the course of treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
Again this is individual to each patient depending on the nature and severity of the complaint and your health goals. This will be discussed and planned prior to commencing your treatment.
What I shouldn’t do after treatment?
After a treatment it is not advisable to do any lifting or carrying and, if possible, no heavy shopping, housework or strong exercise. Following the treatment the muscles will be relaxed and the joints loosened up. If you over-strain yourself at this time the injury could aggravate your problem or even do further damage. If you are currently working while having treatment then try and rest in your break times.
Will I feel sore after treatment?
You may be sore for 24-48 hours after a treatment, especially if you have never had manipulation before. As with sport, it can take the muscles a little while to get used to it. But don’t worry; it should ease off fairly quickly.
If you do not improve or your symptoms get much worse, telephone the practice. Sharp pain on movement indicates that the problem has not settled. Do not wait until your next appointment. We may be able to give you advice or bring your appointment forward if necessary.
How do I pay for my treatment?
Please see our Payment Options.