What to Expect at Your First Osteopathy Appointment
If you've never seen an osteopath before, it's normal to feel a bit unsure about what actually happens in the room. Here's a straightforward rundown so you know what to expect when you book in with me at Border Osteo & Performance.
Before we start
I'll ask about what's brought you in, how long it's been going on, and what makes it better or worse. I'll also ask about your general health, activity levels, and anything relevant in your history, past injuries, surgeries, or conditions that might be feeding into what you're feeling now.
This isn't just box-ticking. The more I understand about how you move and live, the better I can figure out what's actually going on.
My clinic is based inside Club Forma Gym in Richmond, so if strength or conditioning work ends up being part of your plan, you're already in the right building to make that happen.
The physical assessment
Next, I'll usually get you moving, bending, reaching, walking, whatever's relevant to what you've come in for. I'm looking at how you move, where you're restricted, and where things feel strong or weak. I might also check specific joints or muscles with my hands to feel for tension, restriction, or areas that are sensitive.
You'll stay in your normal clothes or activewear for this, so wear something comfortable you can move in.
Treatment
Once I've got a clearer picture, treatment usually happens in the same session. This might include hands-on techniques like soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, or gentle manipulation, plus a few things you can do yourself between sessions.
I'll also explain what I think is going on in plain language, not jargon, so you actually understand what's happening and why.
What happens after
Most people feel some change straight after a session, sometimes immediate relief, sometimes just a bit of soreness as the body adjusts, similar to how you'd feel after a solid workout. I'll let you know what to expect and what to keep an eye on.
If ongoing treatment or a specific plan makes sense, we'll talk through that too, including how strength and conditioning work might fit in if it's relevant to what you're dealing with.
Bring along
Any recent scans or reports if you have them
A list of medications if relevant
Comfortable clothing to move in
If you've got questions before booking, feel free to reach out. Otherwise, I'll see you in the clinic.
Ready to book?
If this sounds like what you're dealing with, book a session at Border Osteo & Performance and we'll build a plan around what your body actually needs.
FAQ
Do I need to prepare anything before my first appointment? Just wear comfortable clothing you can move in. If you have recent scans, reports, or a list of medications, bring those along too, but they're not essential to get started.
How long does a first appointment take? Initial appointments usually run 45 to 60 minutes to allow time for a full assessment and treatment in the same visit, rather than just a quick chat.
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About the author
Dr Harry Shirley is an AHPRA-registered osteopath and founder of Border Osteo & Performance, based inside Club Forma Gym in Richmond. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy) and a Bachelor of Health Science, with 8+ years of experience in musculoskeletal and sport health. Harry has worked within Golf Australia and Golf Victoria's High Performance programs and is currently completing a Master's in High Performance Sport at ACU.
