Frequently asked questions

No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by phone. Osteopaths in New Zealand are primary healthcare providers, which means you can come straight to us.

Yes. If your condition is accident-related, ACC may cover all or part of your treatment costs. Chris is a registered ACC provider. Bring your ACC claim number if you have one, or Chris can help you lodge a claim at your first appointment.

Your first session is longer than follow-up appointments — usually around an hour. Chris will take a detailed case history, including your main complaint, medical history, and lifestyle. He will then perform a physical examination and, if appropriate, treatment in the same session. He will explain what he finds and discuss a treatment plan with you.

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is ideal. You may be asked to remove outer clothing (e.g. a jumper) so that Chris can examine your spine or joints. Modesty is always maintained. Let us know if you have any concerns.

Osteopathic treatment is generally gentle, especially cranial osteopathy, which is very subtle and non-invasive. Structural techniques can sometimes produce mild discomfort — particularly in acutely inflamed areas — but Chris will always work within your comfort zone and explain what he is doing.

This varies widely depending on the condition, how long it has been present, and individual factors. Some people feel significant improvement after one or two sessions; chronic conditions may require more ongoing care. Chris will give you a realistic assessment of likely treatment duration at your first appointment.

Cranial osteopathy is a refined and subtle form of osteopathic treatment using very gentle manipulative pressure to encourage the release of stresses throughout the body. It is suitable for all ages, from newborns to the elderly, and can be particularly helpful for stress, headaches, sleep problems, and systemic conditions.

Yes — it is extremely gentle and safe. Many parents bring their babies for cranial osteopathy to address feeding difficulties, colic, excessive crying, and the physical stresses of labour and delivery. Chris has experience treating newborns and infants.

Yes. Osteopathy is safe during pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner. It can help relieve back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and other musculoskeletal discomforts that are common during pregnancy.

Yes. Chris trained in animal osteopathy under Stuart McGregor at the Osteopathic Centre for Animals in Wantage, England (2004). He treats horses and dogs. See the Animal Osteopathy page for more details.

Chris practices at two locations: 10 Herschell Street, Napier CBD, and 233 Clifton Road, Te Awanga. See the Locations page for maps and directions.

You can book online via Cliniko (available 24/7), call Chris on 021 247 4701, or email chris@yorkosteo.nz.