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Informed
Consent

Osteopathy Informed Consent
& Treatment Information

​Purpose of This Information

The content on this website is provided for general information only and does not replace a consultation with a registered osteopath. It is not personal medical advice and should not be relied upon as such.

Before you receive osteopathic treatment, your practitioner has a legal and professional obligation to ensure you are given enough information to make an informed decision about your care. Informed consent means you understand:

  • the nature and purpose of the proposed osteopathic treatment,

  • any material risks, common side effects, and potential outcomes,

  • available alternative options, and

  • the consequences of not undergoing treatment.

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What Informed Consent Means

By seeking treatment with a registered osteopath, you agree that:

  • You have been provided with clear information about the assessment and recommended osteopathic treatment.

  • You understand the benefits, risks, limitations, and likely outcomes of the care offered.

  • You have had the opportunity to ask questions, and those questions have been answered to your satisfaction.

  • You are voluntarily consenting to the proposed osteopathic treatment.

  • You may withdraw consent at any time before or during treatment without affecting your right to future healthcare.

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Osteopathic Treatment Overview

Osteopathy uses hands-on techniques to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and related systems. Common techniques include but

are not limited to:

  • Soft tissue manipulation

  • Joint mobilisation and manipulation (HVLA)

  • Muscle energy techniques

  • Myofascial release

  • Dry needling

  • Exercise Prescription

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Treatment plans are individualised to your condition and clinical needs.

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Potential Benefits

Patients may experience:

  • Pain reduction or relief

  • Improved joint or muscle mobility

  • Enhanced functional movement

  • Reduced muscle tension or stiffness

  • Support for overall musculoskeletal health

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Potential Risks & Side-Effects

All clinical treatments carry some inherent risk. These may include, but are not limited to:

  • Mild soreness or discomfort following treatment

  • Temporary worsening of symptoms

  • Rare complications such as soft tissue irritation, nerve irritation, or vascular responses

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Your osteopath will explain any risks considered material in your specific case.

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Capacity to Consent

To give legally valid consent, a person must:

  • Understand the relevant information,

  • Be able to weigh the benefits and risks, and

  • Communicate their decision voluntarily.

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If you lack capacity to consent (e.g., due to age, cognitive impairment, or other factors), a parent, guardian, or legal decision-maker may provide consent on your behalf, in accordance with applicable laws.

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Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Ask questions about any aspect of your osteopathic care

  • Seek a second opinion from another registered osteopath

  • Decline or discontinue treatment at any time

  • Request copies of your clinical notes and records

 

AHPRA Registration and Regulatory Context


All osteopaths listed on this site are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and comply with the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law and relevant Board Codes and Guidelines. This includes requirements for safe practice, informed consent, privacy, and professional conduct.

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This information is provided for general purposes and is aligned with the guidelines of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Osteopathy Australia. For more information, visit:

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