What do Osteopaths do?

Osteopaths are allied health professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, and postural issues. At Osteopathic Movement South Yarra, our osteopaths use hands-on techniques including soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, manipulation, dry needling, and myofascial cupping.

What can I expect from my first Osteopathic appointment?

Your first appointment (45–60 minutes) will begin with a detailed case history followed by hands-on treatment and personalised advice on posture, stretching, or strengthening exercises.

Is my appointment covered by Medicare?

Osteopathy is partly covered by Medicare if you have a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) or Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan from your GP.

Does my private health insurance cover Osteo?

Yes—most private health funds provide rebates for osteopathy. You can claim on the spot using HICAPS at our South Yarra clinic.

Can osteopathy help during pregnancy?

Osteopathy can provide safe, gentle support throughout pregnancy. Our osteopaths help with lower back pain, pelvic pain, and postural strain.

Maximising Your WFH Set-Up

5 Jan

Written By Dayne Sweres

Maximising Your WFH

Set-Up

Maximising Your Working From Home Set-Up

With flexible work now part of everyday life, many of us spend long hours at our home desks. If you’re one of the 70% of Melburnians who want to keep the benefits of working from home, it’s worth making sure your space supports your body as well as your productivity.

Here are our top five osteopath-approved tips to optimise your home workstation and stay pain-free.

1. Choose the Right Chair

Your chair forms the foundation of your setup. If you’re using a dining chair, try this:

Roll up a bath towel and place it between your mid-back and the chair to support your natural spinal curve.
Adjust the towel higher or lower for comfort.
If the seat feels too firm, add a thin cushion or folded towel for extra padding.

The goal is to support your spine while allowing freedom of movement.

2. Adjust Desk and Chair Height

Your desk and chair should allow your elbows to sit at or slightly above desk height when typing.

If your chair adjusts, tweak the height until your arms rest comfortably.
If your feet don’t touch the floor, use a footrest or stacked books to create a stable base.

Small height changes can make a big difference to posture and shoulder tension.

3. Improve Your Laptop Setup

Laptops are convenient — but prolonged downward viewing angles can lead to neck strain.

Push your laptop further back on the desk so your forearms are supported.
Raise the screen to eye level using a stand or stacked books.
If possible, use an external keyboard and mouse so your arms and wrists stay relaxed at a 90° angle.

4. Add Helpful Accessories

Ergonomic tools can make working from home more comfortable:

An external monitor, keyboard, and mouse promote better alignment.
A laptop stand keeps the screen at eye level and reduces forward head posture.
Keep accessories within easy reach to avoid repetitive strain through the shoulders and wrists.

These small upgrades reduce fatigue and improve productivity throughout the day.

5. Move Regularly

Even the best desk setup can’t replace movement. Try to:

Take movement breaks every hour — stand, stretch, or walk while taking phone calls.
Perform a quick desk mobility routine (neck rolls, shoulder circles, hip openers).
Alternate between sitting and standing if you use a height-adjustable desk.

Remember: there’s no perfect posture. The best posture is the one that keeps you moving comfortably.

Additional Resources

Safe Work Australia has an excellent, easy-to-read guide on home workstation ergonomics:
Working from Home Workstation Setup Guide (PDF)

The Takeaway

Creating a supportive workspace isn’t about perfection — it’s about balance. Small adjustments to your chair, desk, and screen height can make a huge difference to how your body feels by the end of the day. Combine this with regular movement, and you’ll stay comfortable, productive, and pain-free while working from home.

Book Your Appointment

If you’re experiencing neck, back, or shoulder tightness from your home office setup, our experienced osteopaths can help relieve pain and optimise your posture.

• Meet our South Yarra osteopaths
• Explore our Osteopathic Movement wellness centre
• Book your appointment online

Written By Dr. Ashby Smith (B.HSc, B.HSc + B.ApSc (Osteopathic Medicine)) - Associate Osteopath, Osteopathic Movement, South Yarra.

Dayne Sweres https://www.osteopathicmovement.com