What is Sports Osteopathy?
Osteopathy Australia now recognises osteopaths with additional skills and
training beyond the general osteopathic scope of practice, covering a
number of focus areas including Sports Management.
What is A Sports Osteopath?
Osteopathy Australia's Advanced Practice Recognition program acknowledges osteopaths who have developed knowledge and skills beyond general osteopathic practice in a particular focus area — including Sports Management.
To obtain Advanced Practice Recognition in Sports Management, an osteopath must meet four key criteria:
☑️ Hold a minimum of a Masters-level qualification or equivalent post-graduate study in sports medicine, sport and exercise science, or a related field.
☑️ Have a minimum of 3 years of clinical practice with demonstrated experience in the management of sporting injuries and athletes.
☑️ Demonstrate active involvement in sport at a community, state, or national level — including pitch-side, team, or event coverage.
☑️ Provide evidence of ongoing professional development and continued contribution to the field of sports osteopathy.
An OSN Advanced Sports Osteopath at work
OSN members promote best practice principles in athlete management —
evidence-informed, through science, sports medicine and research.
Benefits for Athletes & Clubs
A Sports Osteopath brings a unique combination of hands-on clinical expertise
and sport-specific knowledge to athlete management.
Evidence-Informed Management
Injury assessment, diagnosis and treatment guided by current sports medicine research and best practice protocols.
Return to Sport Expertise
Structured rehabilitation programs with clear return-to-sport criteria to get athletes back safely and confidently.
Integrated Team Approach
Working alongside coaches, physios, sports physicians and S&C staff for coordinated athlete care and performance support.
Pitch-Side & Event Coverage
Experienced in match-day and event coverage — from community sport through to national and international competitions.
Injury Prevention Programs
Proactive screening and load management strategies to reduce injury risk throughout the season and off-season.
Referral Networks
Connected to a national network of sports medicine professionals, enabling seamless referral pathways for complex cases.
Advanced Practice Recognition
Learn More About OA Advanced Practice
Osteopathy Australia's Advanced Practice Recognition program formally acknowledges osteopaths who have developed exceptional expertise in specific clinical areas including sports management. Visit the OA website to learn more about the criteria and recognition process.
Find a Sports Osteopath
OSN's Advanced Sports Osteopaths are available across Australia.
Connect with a practitioner near you — whether for athlete
management, team coverage, or clinical consultation.
