From Monday 22 April 2013, Inlign Osteopathy will be located at the following address:

230 Toorak Road South Yarra Victoria 3141

The move is only 1.4km down Toorak Road. Here’s a map showing the previous clinic address (59 Ross Street Toorak) and the new address (230 Toorak Road South Yarra).

Importantly, our phone number (03 9827 5315) and email address remain the same. Below is an interactive map showing the previous clinic location and the new clinic location in South Yarra:

We are currently producing signage for the new clinic. In the meantime, below is an image of the current entry. To enter Inlign Osteopathy’s new clinic, simply walk through the gate at 230 Toorak Road South Yarra and follow the signage to suite 1.

Why Are You Moving to a New Location?

The time came to assess our lease, so we looked at our options and scouted other locations. While we really loved our Ross Street clinic, the new location offers us better street frontage, is closer to public transport and has attractive lease terms.

Key Questions About the Move

How is Parking Near the New Clinic?
While the South Yarra area has more businesses, it also has plenty of nearby parking. And most are two hour parking spots, which is a lot better than the current 1 hour parking spots offered in Toorak. The clinic location is also more accessible via public transport, both via trams on Toorak Road and Chapel Street and also via South Yarra train station.

Will Your Phone Number & Email Address Change?
No. Our phone number (03) 9827 5315 and email will remain the same.

What Do I Have To Do?
Just remember that from Monday 22 April 2013, all Inlign Osteopathy appointments will be conducted from the new clinic at 230 Toorak Road South Yarra Vic.

If you have any questions, please contact Inlign Osteopathy. We look forward to seeing you in South Yarra.

In statistics hot off the press, the popularity of osteopathy has once again risen in leaps and bounds. According to the Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) – A government body, the number of people choosing to visit an osteopath has increased by 48% over the last two years. As a comparison, other manual practitioners such as chiropractic and physiotherapy increased by only 7% and 11% respectively during this time period. The popularity of osteopathy is jumping ahead in leaps and bounds.

These statistics, continue the growth in osteopathy trend we’ve identified previously.

Osteopathy grows 48% in 2 years across AustraliaSource: PHIAC June 2012 

Osteopathy is Australia’s Fastest Growing Health Profession

Delving further into the available statistics, we find that the popularity of osteopathy has been increasing for quite some time. Below is a chart showing that osteopathy treatments have increased 270% since 2005. When comparing this to all other modalities, osteopathy is easily in the lead by a considerable margin.

Osteopathy has increased 270% in 7 years – far outpacing other health professions
Source: PHIAC

Where Are These Statistics From?

These industry statistics are publicly available via the PHIAC website. The Private Health Insurance Administration Council (PHIAC) is an independent Government organisation that oversees and regulates the private health insurance industry. It gathers information from all funds and all payments that are made through ‘extras’ or ancillary payments.

It’s great to see the Australian public embrace osteopathy.

As an osteopath Melbourne we see many patients with broken bones and sprains. The obvious question asked is ‘how long will it take to heal?’

The short answer is that we are all human, and so therefore our bones generally heal at the same rate. There is some research that indicates we can heal bones faster by exercising, having a good diet and avoiding smoking. This makes sense, but generally these improvements will not markedly vary from what we can achieve biologically. That is, if a bone normally takes six weeks to heal, following a strict regime won’t cut this to three or four weeks.

Our bodies are a marvellous and efficient organism because they can actually heal themselves when faced with injury. This healing process is automatic. It will automatically identify and repair broken tissues, muscles, and even bones without you even knowing they are damaged.

Your body can heal a bone by itself. The only problem is that the damaged bone may heal in the incorrect position, which may cause more problems in the future. To alleviate this potential problem, broken bones are almost always supported with casts, splits or even cement. This reduces movement, while still allowing the patient to stay mobile.

The time it takes for a bone to completely heal and to be back to its normal condition depends on the type of bone that is broken and where it is located. Generally, bones with a reduced blood supply will take longer to heal. Other factors that affect the duration of the healing process include activities like drinking alcohol and smoking.

Here is a list of the bones in some parts of the body and their estimate time of healing:

• Collar bone takes 3-8 weeks of healing time
• Shoulder blade takes 6 weeks of healing time
• Ribs takes 4 weeks of healing time
• Upper arm takes 4-10 weeks of healing time
• Lower arm takes 6 weeks of healing time
• Wrist takes 4-12 weeks of healing time
• Fingers takes 4-6 weeks of healing time
• Pelvis takes 4-6 weeks of healing time
• Upper leg takes 12 weeks of healing time
• Knee takes 4-6 weeks of healing time
• Lower leg takes 10-24 weeks of healing time
• Ankle takes 6 weeks of healing time
• Foot takes 3-12 weeks of healing time
• Toes takes 3 weeks of healing time

If you have concerns about the way your bone is healing, or just want further information, it’s recommended that you contact your doctor.

Although everyone’s degree of pain and presenting symptoms are different, lower back pains and their associated conditions can generally be assessed by an osteopath. As a practitioner at Inlign osteopath Melbourne, lower back pain is probably the most common condition I see each week.

Lower Back Pain is the Most Common Pain

It’s sobering to think that over 80% of the population experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. And 10% of people will experience significant limitation due to back pain. As my lower back pain page indicates, lower back pain is most commonly caused by poor posture. An osteopath can explain the pointers to good posture so you can reduce the damage that posture habits have on your back.

As a rule of thumb, the longer that a pain has been present, the longer it will take to treat. It’s an osteopath’s aim to make each patient completely pain free for the long term. Although we would like this to be the outcome for all patients, sometimes this is not possible. Sometimes the severity of the pain can be reduced but not completely. In rarer circumstances surgery may be required. But surgery is always looked at as a last resort as it’s an invasive permanent procedure that brings its own considerations to the table.

In an osteopathic treatment, an osteopath will assess and examine the causes of a person’s lower back pain and then offer treatments that will best release the back pain and get to the core of the problems. Treatments may include re-aligning the lower back, pelvis, and hips; stimulating the nervous system; relaxing muscle spasms; stretching the muscles that support the ligaments at the back; restoring the normal functions of the vertebrae, among others. An osteopath may also provide advice to patients to help avoid lower back pain i.e. proper posture, diet, exercise and stretching and workplace ergonomics.

To aid recovery and strengthen the associated spinal muscle groups, osteopaths will usually proscribe specific exercises. These exercises aren’t a huge commitment to complete. It’s also not entirely necessary for you to perform them. But you will only be cheating yourself. By completing exercises you are accelerating your recovery time and reducing your reliance on as many further treatments.

To learn more about lower back pain, or to book a treatment, contact Inlign Osteopathy.

Are X-Rays More Harm than Good?

Each week x-ray scans are brought into Inlign osteopath Melbourne for assessment. This is great, as osteopaths are able to read the results of x-rays and make more informed treatment diagnosis decisions.

In general we all have a basic understanding that x-rays are harmful. But apart from this general statement, we often don’t know any more. As with everything in life, x-rays have pros and cons. It’s just that these pros and cons tend to be quite polorising. X-ray machines release electromagnetic energy that allows images of your bones and organs to be viewed  without surgery. This light energy released in the machine is known to be high in radiation. An x-ray is a form of an ionizing radiation which causes chemical reactions to cells when these cells are exposed to the energy emitted by the x-ray machine. Or to go one step further, when an x-ray hits an atom in your body, the electron of an atom changes into a charged ion that can cause the harmful chemical reactions. This can have the unfortunate side effect of killing or mutating cells in your body.

It should be noted that your exposure to the x-ray is extremely brief. This reduces the impact of any damage to your body. And doctors know the risks. This means that the x-ray exposure can often be localised to specific areas of your body.

You may also notice that to reduce exposure risk you are given a heavy ‘blanket’ to hold or cradle. This blanket is filled with lead, which cannot be penetrated by the x-ray, thereby protecting parts of your body that don’t need to be exposed.

Don’t think that radiation exposure can only be transferred through x-rays. We are also exposed to naturally occurring radiation through living our normal lives.

X-rays are hugely beneficial and should not be avoided if required. As the benefits of observing x-ray results outweigh the exposure risks. It’s just prudent to be aware of these x-ray risks as you should not willingly agree to a fleeting request for an x-ray, especially if you have had many x-rays in the past. If in any doubt, discuss your concerns with your doctor.

Acute and chronic Doesn’t Relate to Pain Levels

The term ‘chronic’ may also refer to a condition that is often recurring or is something that worsens every reoccurrence. A condition regarded to as chronic is something that does not affect a person suddenly and is rather affecting the various systems and body parts gradually as it also develops very slowly. In order for a condition or illness to be considered as a chronic one, the disease should last for three months or longer. If an acute illness, such as bronchial asthma or diabetes is left untreated, this may develop into a chronic condition which may be fatal to the person affected. An acute illness that does not improve over time, will gradually be revised to chronic, once three months has passed.

Acute conditions and illnesses generally affect people suddenly. Examples include, a cut to the hand, catching a cold, or being victim to an accident which causes you an injury. However, these conditions may all lead to being chronic if they’re injuries linger for longer.

It is important to note that the terms ‘chronic’ and ‘acute’ do not indicate the severity of a person’s condition but rather the duration this certain condition affects that person. It is a myth to believe that chronic injuries are more painful than acute injuries, or vice versa. The severity of a chronic or acute illnesses depends on the condition and symptoms themselves
rather than the time period noted by being acute or chronic.

An osteopath is adept at treating both acute and chronic muscular skeletal conditions. But generally speaking, the longer that you have had a condition or pain, the longer it will take to treat and alleviate.

For more information contact Inlign Osteopath Melbourne

Australia’s private health insurance industry also acknowledges an osteopaths medical credentials and will pay ancillary – better known as ‘extras’ benefits – when a member is treated by an osteopath.

Osteopathy Courses Combine Practical and Theory

Excitingly, the number of osteopaths in Australia is growing and has been growing for many years. In fact, when measured against other practitioners, osteopathy is the fastest growing medical discipline in Australia. Osteopathy has grown by 67% over the last three years.

To become an accredited osteopath, you must firstly complete a three year full time undergraduate degree in applied science (complementary medicine). Upon completion you must then complete a two year Masters degree. As part of the Masters Degree, budding osteopaths perform supervised treatments on real paying customers for two years. This gives graduating osteopaths a minimum experience of 250 paying patients before they begin official practice.

Regular course assessments emphasise a high excellence standard across biological theory and the demonstration of osteopathic techniques.

Currently, osteopathy is taught across three Australian universities, including

• NSW: Southern Cross University Osteopathy
• Vic: Victoria University Osteopathy
• Vic: RMIT Osteopathy

Osteopathy combines comprehensive practical supervised training with biomedical sciences. This combination ensures osteopaths can both understand and treat musculo-skeletal conditions, understand the intertwined relationship that parts of the body have and preempt other conditions that may develop. Below is a snapshot of the biomedical sciences that osteopaths are taught:

• Advanced Pathology
• Anatomy
• Biochemistry
• Biology of the Cell
• Clinical Biomechanics
• Clinical Diagnosis & Management
• Clinical Health Management
• Clinical Microbiology
• Diagnostic Imaging & Conceptual Health
• Embryology
• Exercise Rehabilitation
• Head and Visceral Anatomy
• Histology
• Human Physiology
• Immunology and Genetics
• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Nutrition
• Osteopathic Diagnosis & Technique
• Osteopathic Technique
• Osteopathic Theory and Practice
• Osteopathy Principles and Clinical Practice
• Osteopathy Theory and Practice
• Osteopathy Mechanics and Principles
• Pathology
• Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Psychology
• Physiology
• Principles of Human Biology and Radiology

Before the completion of their osteopathic education, osteopaths must also complete a thesis on an osteopathic subject. This thesis is submitted, presented and reviewed by their peers. As Osteopathy is one of the fastest growing medical disciplines in Australia, an osteopathy course provides bright prospects and the window for a successful and satisfying medical career. Once qualified osteopaths can also travel to other countries to practice, although like other medical qualifications, entry tests and criteria may need to be completed.

Australia’s osteopaths are registered under a federal registration system, governed by the Osteopathy Board of Australia. This means that osteopaths register once each year and can practice in every state and territory across Australia. Almost all osteopaths operate in private practice clinics, the majority of which are situated in Melbourne and Sydney.

Heat vs Ice. When to Use on an Injury

What’s the Reason Behind Applying Heat or Cold to an Injury?

To understand how heat and cold can aid your recovery process, it’s first important to understand why. And it all comes down to blood flow. Your body is constantly pumping blood around your body, sending nutrients, body warmth and oxygen to enable you to function normally. If you become injured, your body’s natural response is to send additional blood flow to the effected area. This extra blood is aimed at combating and removing any foreign entry as well as accelerating your natural healing.

Using Heat Packs

In general, heat packs are a great way to alleviate long term injuries, also known as chronic conditions. A heat pack will stimulate your blood vessels to open wide, which improves blood flow to a targeted area. Heat packs are also perfect for assisting areas that experience a high level of muscle tension, such as your neck, shoulders or back. Simply heat up your heat pack in the microwave and place it on your targeted area. In addition, heat can also be a good option for injuries caused by repetitive overuse.

“A good rule of thumb is: Use heat on an injury that has already occurred to improve its recovery.”

How to Apply Heat

The best method is to use a dedicated heat pack, which you can place in the microwave for 2 minutes to heat up. Heat should not be used for more than 20 minutes at a time, to reduce the chance of inflaming other areas.

Heat Pack Precautions

Never use heat immediately after experiencing an injury as this will likely do more harm than good. Your body is already naturally increasing blood flow to the area and so does not need further assistance from a heat pack.

Be careful when applying a heat pack to your targeted area. Ensure that the heat pack is not too hot, or that adequate clothing is secured as protection. Do not use heat packs for extended time periods such as sleeping or while on long car trips. This can increase the risk of inflammation which can make you feel stiff.

When to Use an Ice Pack

Ice is a great way to lessen the damage of acute (sudden) injuries. By applying ice to an injured area you begin to restrict blood flow, which in turn reduces inflammation. This is important for sudden injuries as it reduces the pressure that your body is under, so it can better focus on beginning and maintaining the healing process. It also numbs the pain that you’re feeling which is another huge benefit.

“A good rule of thumb is: Use Ice on an injury that has just occurred to reduce pain and improve recovery.”

How to Use an Ice Pack

For maximum benefit, use an icepack on an injury within 48 hours of injury. The longer the delay in applying the icepack, the less the benefit. When applying the ice, never leave it in the same position for more than 15 minutes, as this can ice-burn the area. Instead, regularly move the ice around the injury region. Always wrap the ice in a plastic bag or in a towel.

It’s also recommended to keep the injured area elevated above your heart, or as high as possible. This is important as it further reduces blood flow and inflammation to the affected area. While icing, it’s preferable to keep the injured area elevated above the heart. This acts to further stem blood flow and reduce inflammation. Never ice an area for more than 15 minutes at a time as the reduced local blood flow can lead to conditions such as frostbite.

Precautions When Using Ice Packs

As discussed, only use icepacks on injuries that have just occurred. Be aware that applying ice to an area with lots of nerves can be painful. This includes bone fracture sites. If applying ice causes too much pain, do not continue to apply ice as the discomfort has outweighed the benefit that the ice could provide.

If you break a bone, do not apply ice as your body does actually need to increase blood flow to the affected area to begin recovery. By adding ice to the injury site, you are infact increasing the recovery time for broken bones.
Be careful when applying ice packs to your neck area. It’s recommended that you instead use a cold cloth as an ice pack will reduce blood flow to your head. And it’s important that blood flow to your head is maintained.

What happens if You’re Still Unsure?

If you’re unsure whether to use an icepack or a heatpack on your injury, simply contact your doctor or osteopath.

Osteopathy’s Premier Body is the Australian Osteopathic Association

What is the Purpose of the AOA?

The Australian Osteopathic Association represents over 1,500 Australian osteopaths by providing a united voice in promoting the benefits of osteopathy and ensuring all its members receive the best education possible. The AOA also proactively provides its members with access to the latest and best in patient care information.

To do this the AOA liaises with all tiers of government, the education industry and medical regulators. In addition the AOA works closely with the national Osteopathic registration board at the Australian Health Practitioner  Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and with the Australian and New Zealand Osteopathic Council (ANZOC).

The AOA is constantly on the hop to ensure the success of osteopathy grows, and that its members are performing at the best level they can.

Can I use the AOA?

You can use the Australian Osteopathic Association’s website to view the contact details of osteopaths in your local area as well as information about osteopathy. However you cannot book a treatment through the AOA, nor have the AOA advise you on which specific practitioner to contact. The AOA proudly recommends the virtues of osteopathy and supports all its members.

Should I Choose an Osteopath Who’s a Member of the AOA?

This is one of the key questions on questions you need to ask your manual practitioner. It is by no means essential for you to choose an osteopath that is an AOA member. However if you do select an osteopath that is a member of the AOA, you’re provided with a further layer of trust that that practitioner has been accepted into the premier osteopathic association and is part of a wide ongoing education network.

Inlign Osteopathy is a proud member of the Australian Osteopathic Association. In addition, Dr Raissa Anin (osteopath) is a council member (2009-current).

• Relaxation massage
• Therapeutic massage
• Hot stone massage

A massage voucher is a perfect pick me up for a friend of loved one. It also takes ‘saying thank you’ to a whole new level. And if you’re not sure which massage would suit, you can always leave the decision to the massage voucher recipient.

How Much Does a Massage Cost?
View our massage prices. Gift vouchers can be for any of the three massage types and for any of the durations. It’s completely up to you.

How long is the Voucher Valid?
All massage vouchers are valid for a generous 12 months, which gives your recipient plenty of time to organise a time that suits them.

What Does a Massage Voucher Look Like?
Below is a picture of the voucher. These have been professionally printed on thick paper. All vouchers are supplied in a silver envelope, to give an additional touch of elegance.

Massage Gift Voucher

Is the Massage Voucher Transferable?
Yes. Your can transfer the massage to anyone without any problems.

How Do I Secure a Massage Gift Voucher?
The best way of securing a massage gift voucher is to personally drop into our clinic. We’ll be able to complete your voucher and provide it to you right away.

For more information, contact Inlign Osteopathy