Gentle, whole-person osteopathy for pain that hasn't gone away.
Trauma-aware, nervous-system-informed osteopathic care in Collingwood. We treat the root cause of your pain — at a pace and in a way that feels safe for your body. You're welcome here exactly as you are.
AHPRA Registered
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10 Years' Experience
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HICAPS - rebates on the spot
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No GP referral needed
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AHPRA Registered 〰️ 10 Years' Experience 〰️ HICAPS - rebates on the spot 〰️ No GP referral needed 〰️
Is this you?
✅ Stress-related tension
✅ Tendinopathies
✅ Nervous system dysregulation
✅ Jaw tension
✅ Postural strain & movement restrictions
✅ Joint pain
✅ Trauma & overwhelm held in the body
✅ Ligament sprains
✅ Chronic pain that keeps coming back
✅ Neck & back pain
✅ Headaches & migraines
✅ Scoliosis-related discomfort
Why SomaFlow osteopathy is different
SomaFlow Osteopathy is an LGBTQIA+ affirming and trauma-aware space. I work with people of all genders, bodies, and identities, using a consent-based approach that prioritises safety, comfort, and choice. You're welcome here exactly as you are.
Dr Rusty Gaddes
Osteopath — BAppSc (Human Anatomy), Master of Osteopathy
Hi, I’m Dr Rusty — Your Collingwood Osteopath, with a special interest in chronic pain, nervous system health, and helping people reconnect with their bodies to regain movement, function, and wellbeing.
My approach blends hands-on osteopathic care with a deep understanding of how stress, trauma, posture, and life experiences shape the way our bodies function.
Philosophy:
I believe pain isn’t just structural, it’s often the result of patterns your body and nervous system have developed over time.
I blend hands-on osteopathy with nervous system-informed care creating a treatment that is collaborative, informative, and tailored to your body and capacity on the day, ensuring you feel safe and empowered throughout the process.
My goal is simple:
To identify and treat the underlying drivers of your pain, while helping your body regain movement, resilience, and ease — so you can get back to living and functioning at your best.
What to expect in your first session
01
Discussion & Clinical History
We talk through your concerns, past injuries, and health history — at your pace.
02
Clinical Assessment
A gentle evaluation of movement, posture, and nervous-system responses.
04
Practical Strategies for Home
Exercises, posture advice, and tools to keep progressing between sessions.
03
Osteopathic Treatment
Tailored to your needs, comfort level, and capacity on the day.
Book Online
Take the first step toward feeling better
Private health rebates available
10 years clinical experience
Treat the root cause of your pain
Trauma-aware, gentle, and patient-centered care
Collaborative and supportive approach, tailored to your body and needs
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No — you can book directly with us, no GP referral required.
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Depending on your level of cover and health fund, you may be eligible for a rebate on your osteopathy session. Coverage varies between policies, so we recommend checking directly with your health fund to confirm your eligibility and rebate amount.
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Appointments are available throughout the week. If you can't find a suitable time through the online booking system, please contact me directly, and I'll do my best to find a time that works for you.
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Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Depending on your presentation, I may need to assess your posture and movement, so clothing that allows access to the area being treated can be helpful.
You don't need to bring anything special, but if you have any relevant scans, imaging reports, medical information, or a current chronic pain management plan from your GP, please bring these along, as they can help inform your treatment.
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Absolutely. My aim is to provide a calm, supportive and non-judgemental environment where you feel comfortable and respected. Your comfort, boundaries and sense of safety are important to me.
You are always welcome to let me know if something feels uncomfortable, ask questions, or request that we pause or adjust the treatment at any time. You never need to share anything you're not comfortable discussing, and we can work together at a pace that feels right for you.
Frequently asked questions
1. Structure and Function
The body’s structure and function are closely linked. Correcting imbalances in joints, muscles, and connective tissue can improve circulation, movement, and organ performance.
Core Osteopathic Principles in each treatment
2. The Self-Regulatory Mechanism
The body possesses self-regulating mechanisms that support healing. Osteopathy works in partnership with these to help correct any disruption to the body’s ability to heal.
3. The Body is a Single, Dynamic Unity of Function
We take time to understand your unique story and history, allowing us to address the root causes of your concerns rather than isolated symptoms.
4. Rational Treatment
A personalised treatment plan based on these principles, working to realign structure and function and activate your body’s innate healing abilities.