15+ years of clinical experience | 4,000+ Calgarians treated | Experienced educator & instructor
Frequently Asked Questions
If you're considering manual osteopathy for the first time, you may have questions about what to expect, what to wear, how treatment feels, or whether it's appropriate for your particular concern.
We've answered some of the most common questions below. If you don't see your question here, feel free to get in touch at unityosteo@gmail.com.
New to manual osteopathy? Here are some of the questions we hear most often.
What should I book for my first appointment?
For your first appointment, we recommend booking a 60-minute treatment.
This gives Zarko enough time to have a conversation about your health history and concerns, complete a thorough assessment and provide hands-on treatment.
Once Zarko has assessed your needs, shorter appointments may be appropriate for follow-up visits.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move easily.
You remain fully clothed throughout your treatment. Athletic wear, comfortable pants and a T-shirt or similar clothing work well.
What happens during a manual osteopathy treatment?
Your appointment begins with a conversation about what you're experiencing, your health history and any previous injuries or concerns.
Zarko then assesses how your body is moving and how different areas may be working together. Treatment is hands-on and may involve a combination of gentle techniques depending on what he finds.
You may be asked to move, turn or change positions during the assessment and treatment.
The process is collaborative, and Zarko checks in with you throughout the appointment.
Are manual osteopathy treatments painful?
Manual osteopathy is generally a gentle form of hands-on treatment.
Some techniques, particularly soft tissue work, may create pressure or temporary tenderness, but treatment should remain within a level that feels comfortable for you. Zarko communicates with you throughout the appointment and adjusts the treatment based on your feedback.
If something doesn't feel right, let him know.
Do you crack or manipulate joints?
Zarko's approach uses gentle mobilization techniques rather than forceful or sudden joint manipulation.
There is no need to be concerned about having your joints forcefully “cracked.” Techniques are adapted to the individual and performed with your comfort and feedback in mind.
Do I need a referral to see a manual osteopath?
No. You do not need a referral to book an appointment with Zarko.
If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition or are currently receiving care from another healthcare professional, it can still be helpful to let Zarko know about your diagnosis, treatment and medications so he can take your overall situation into consideration.
Can I continue seeing my physiotherapist, chiropractor, massage therapist or other healthcare provider?
Absolutely.
Manual osteopathy can be part of a broader approach to your health and may complement other forms of care. Zarko is happy to work alongside other healthcare professionals when that makes sense for the individual.
Your healthcare team may each bring a different perspective and area of expertise.
Does Zarko treat children?
Yes. Zarko has treated many children over the years.
Treatment for children is adapted to their age, development, comfort level and individual needs. The approach is gentle and collaborative, and Zarko takes the time to make sure the child feels comfortable with the process.
For younger children, a parent or guardian remains involved throughout the appointment.
If you're wondering whether manual osteopathy may be appropriate for your child, feel free to contact Zarko before booking at unityosteo@gmail.com.
What kinds of conditions does Zarko work with?
Zarko works with people experiencing a wide range of musculoskeletal, movement-related and persistent pain concerns.
These include back and neck pain, joint and muscle discomfort, sports and repetitive-strain injuries, headaches and tension, postural concerns and pain that continues to return after an injury or despite previous treatment.
Every person is different, so an assessment is the best way to determine whether manual osteopathy may be appropriate for your particular concern.
How many treatments will I need?
There isn't a set number of treatments that applies to everyone.
The number and frequency of appointments depends on your individual concerns, how your body responds to treatment and your goals.
Zarko reassesses throughout the process and adjusts the approach as needed. The goal is not to keep you coming indefinitely, but to provide appropriate care based on what you need.
Is manual osteopathy covered by extended health benefits?
Coverage varies between insurance providers and individual plans.
Manual osteopathy may be eligible for reimbursement through some extended health benefit plans. We recommend checking directly with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage before booking.
Unity does not currently offer direct billing. A receipt will be provided after your appointment so you can submit your claim to your insurance provider.
What if I'm not sure whether osteopathy is right for me?
That's completely okay.
You don't need to know which treatment technique you need—or even whether manual osteopathy is the right approach—before you reach out.
If you're dealing with persistent pain, a recurring injury, restricted movement or a concern you're not sure how to address, you can contact Zarko to discuss whether an appointment may be appropriate.
If your symptoms suggest that another type of healthcare may be more appropriate, Zarko will let you know.