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What to expect at your first visit

If you've never seen an osteopath before — or it's been a while — here's what your first appointment with Max usually involves. The aim is to make sure you arrive prepared and know roughly what to expect.

Before the appointment

What to bring

• Any relevant imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI reports — digital or hard copy)
• GP referral or specialist letter if you have one
• Private health insurance card (for HICAPS claim on the day)
• Medicare card (if you have a CDM referral) or DVA card (if applicable)
• A list of any current medications or recent surgical procedures

What to wear

Loose, comfortable clothing — shorts and a t-shirt or singlet are ideal. For most presentations, Max will need to see the relevant area; you're welcome to bring a change of clothes if you're coming from work. Towels and modesty drapes are provided.

During the appointment

1. Welcome and consent Max will introduce himself and confirm the reason for your visit. He'll explain what the appointment involves and confirm your consent before proceeding.

2. Detailed history A structured conversation about your current concern — when it started, how it behaves, what's been tried — alongside relevant medical history, lifestyle, work, and activity. This is the part that often surfaces the most useful information; it's worth taking your time.

3. Clinical examination A relevant musculoskeletal examination — observation, joint and movement testing, neurological screening where indicated, and hands-on assessment of the involved area. Max will explain each part as he goes and check that you're comfortable.

4. Discussion of findings Max will walk you through what's been found, what it likely means, and what the management options are. This is where questions are welcome — bring them.

5. Initial treatment Most initial consultations include hands-on treatment after the history and examination, where clinically appropriate. Treatment may include osteopathic manual therapy, dry needling, or shockwave therapy — used selectively where indicated. Some presentations need further imaging or a GP review before treatment begins, in which case Max will let you know and refer accordingly.

6. Management plan and next steps Before you leave, Max will summarise the proposed management plan: estimated number of follow-ups, any exercises or home strategies, and any onward referrals (GP, imaging, other practitioner) if relevant.

Common anxieties patients bring (and how Max addresses them)

If you've never seen an osteopath, you might come in with some specific worries. Most are common — and worth naming.

• "I'm worried about being undressed." For most musculoskeletal presentations, Max will need to see the relevant area. Patients are usually most comfortable in loose shorts and a t-shirt or singlet. Towels and modesty drapes are provided. You're welcome to ask for a chaperone, bring someone with you, or stop and re-clothe at any point.
• "I'm worried about cracking sounds." High-velocity manipulation isn't routine. Treatment is adapted to your preference and to what's clinically appropriate. If you'd prefer low-velocity techniques only, tell Max — many approaches don't involve any "cracking" at all.
• "I'm worried I'll feel emotional." Pain can carry emotional weight, particularly when it's been around a while. If you find the visit emotional, that's normal — Max will give you space and won't make it awkward.
• "I'm worried I won't know what's happening." Max explains each step before it happens, including what the examination involves and what each treatment is for. You can stop at any point.
• "I'm worried I'm wasting the appointment if there's nothing wrong." There's no such thing as a wasted assessment. If the examination doesn't find a musculoskeletal cause, you'll get an honest "this isn't my territory" — and a referral pathway. That's a useful outcome.

After the appointment

What might happen physically It's common to feel a difference (sometimes lighter, sometimes a bit more tender) for 24–48 hours after an initial treatment. This usually settles. Drink water, move gently, and avoid extreme activity for the rest of the day. If anything feels concerning — significant new pain, weakness, or unusual symptoms — get in touch with Max or your GP.

What about follow-up? Follow-up appointments frequency depends on the presentation — sometimes weekly for the first few sessions, then tapering as you improve. The plan is reviewed at each visit.

Communication with your GP

With your consent, Max can write to your GP after your initial assessment — particularly useful for chronic or complex presentations. This is opt-in and you'll be asked at the appointment.

Your privacy

All consultation notes and clinical records are kept securely in line with the Australian Privacy Principles and AHPRA's record-keeping requirements. See the privacy policy for full details.

Max Bellaiche · AHPRA OST0004003860 · Master of Osteopathic Medicine
Educational content, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 000.