Informed Consent

Please read this information carefully before your treatment, your osteopath with discuss this with you at your initial consultation.

Informed consent means you understand and agree to your proposed treatment after being informed about the nature and expected benefits of treatment, the material risks, reasonable alternatives (including choosing not to have treatment), and your right to ask questions and withdraw consent at any time.

While osteopathic treatment is generally safe, there are potential risks.

For adults and older children, treatment may occasionally lead to temporary aggravation of symptoms, temporary muscle or joint soreness or stiffness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue or headache. In rare cases, more serious complications have been reported with manual therapy, such as fractures, disc or nerve injuries, or vascular complications. Your osteopath will discuss these in relation to your condition, medical history and treatment plan.

For babies and young children, Port Fairy Osteopathy uses very gentle, non‑manipulative biodynamic techniques that do not involve direct manipulation, high‑velocity thrusts, joint “cracking” or strong mechanical forces. Because these techniques are extremely gentle, the more serious risks listed above are not considered applicable when this type of treatment is performed appropriately. Occasionally, babies may experience short‑term changes such as increased fussiness, or temporary changes in sleep or feeding patterns after treatment.

Informed consent should be reviewed every 12 months, when you present with new symptoms or a new complaint, if there is a change in your diagnosis, medical history or medications, if different treatment techniques are proposed, or following a significant break in osteopathic treatment.

By providing your consent, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this information (or it has been explained to you), that you have had the opportunity to ask questions, that you understand the nature, benefits and risks of the proposed treatment, and that you understand you may withdraw consent at any time.

Your osteopath with discuss this form with you prior to signing at your initial consultation