FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is osteopathy & why would a person choose it?

Using observation, palpation and hands-on methods, manual osteopathy aims to relieve patterns of strain and tension that may be hindering the function of body structures and systems. Primary goals of treatment are to improve pliability, mobility and fluid circulation within the body. The emphasis in manual osteopathy is to support the body's inherent ability to autoregulate and maintain a healthy dynamic balance (homeostasis). Manual osteopathy may be helpful for individuals experiencing movement restrictions, postural problems, acute or chronic pain, post surgical rehabilitation, or other issues associated with various dieseases or disorders. As the osteopathic perspective considers various structures and systems in the body that other modalities may not consider, and since all the body structures form an interconnected anatomical web, this approach may be complimentary and helpful as part of a treatment plan. For more information please go to: Manitoba Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (MAOMP) Canadian College of Osteopathy (CCO/CEO/CSO) Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAO) Canadian Federation of Osteopaths (CFO) ​



What is the difference between an Osteopathic Manual Therapist and an Osteopathic Physcian?

An Osteopathic Physcian or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who has also received special training in the musculskeletal system. In the United States, DOs are able to prescribe medication and practice in all areas of medicine including surgery (1). Osteopathic Manual Therapists have received training in traditional manual osteopathic practice, however they are not medical doctors. Treatment is guided by osteopathic philosophies, and involves only manual techniques. (1) http://www.osteopathic.org/inside-aoa/news-and-publications/media-center (retrieved March 11, 2018).



Is Osteopathy covered by extended health insurance?

Please contact your benefits administrator for information about your group plan, benefits and limitations with respect to coverage for the services of an osteopathic manual therapist. As members of the Manitoba Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (MAOMP) and affiliate members of the Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAO), we are covered by all major insurance companies such as Blue Cross, Canada Life, Great West Life, Standard Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Empire Life, Green Shield, Equitable Life, Chambers of Commerce and others. It is important to be aware that osteopathy is not a regulated profession in Manitoba or Canada. As a result, there are many different educational institutions and associations with significant variations in the level and degree of training their therapists may have. It is advisable to enquire about a therapist's training and creditials, and check with your insurance provider to determine if that individual's services are covered prior to your initial visit.



What are your manual osteopathy education and practice standards?

Darcy and Marco are both graduates of the Canadian College of Osteopathy. This education included 5 years of in-person classroom instruction plus an additional year to complete a research thesis. We are members of the Manitoba Association of Osteopathic Manual Practioners (MAOMP) and affiliate members of the Ontario Association of Oteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAO). The standards of both associations are based on the benchmarks established by the World Health Organization (WHO). To view the OAO educational standards, please click HERE. To view the World Health Organization's published benchmarks document, please click HERE. Manual Osteopathy is not a regulated profession in Manitoba, therefore the use of the title does not communicate a consistent standard of training.



What can I expect during a treatment?

To better understand the potential factors contributing to your current experience, during our first session we will ask for and review with you a detailed health history and complete a whole body assessment. Most treatments are about one hour in length, and clients are asked to wear comfortable clothing such as a t-shirt and yoga tights or shorts. The number of treatments required varies depending on the unique and specific aspects of each individual's situation. As manual osteopathy recognizes the body's ability to self regulate and heal, the intent is to provide the minimum number of treatments to help optimize this innate process.