How to become an osteopath
Care for patients using hands-on treatments and your knowledge of the musculoskeletal system.
Pathways to this career
- Complete an undergraduate osteopathy degree.
- Study a postgraduate degree with a focus on osteopathy - a master's level degree is required to practice as a registered osteopath.
- Obtain a current First Aid certificate. Be sure to stay up to date with this training as required.
- Upon graduating, register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). You will need to renew your AHPRA registration annually in order to practice.
What does an osteopath do?
As allied health professionals, osteopaths physically examine patients and take extensive histories to work out the nature and extent of disorders. Through massage and manipulation, and supplementary measures including exercise, they correct problem areas and help patients live healthier lives.Duties and tasks
- Advise patients about nutrition, sleep, exercise and stress management.
- Consult with a patients primary doctor when necessary.
- Evaluate the functioning of the nervous system and the spine.
- Maintain accurate records on patients, including case histories and medical histories.
- Perform a series of manual adjustments to the spine to correct disorders.
Industry bodies
- Australian Osteopathic Association
- Australian and New Zealand Osteopathic Council
- Osteopaths Registration Board of Australia
Related jobs and job titles
- Acupuncturist
- Chiropractor
- Craniosacral
- Massage Therapist
- Medical Practitioner
- Paediatric Osteopath
- Physiotherapist
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