A functional movement approach to osteopathy with Dr. Nathaniel Van Maanen
At Form Osteopathy, our philosophy is based in patient-centred care that is tailored to your unique form and condition. And our approach is to treat your pain or injury and give you the tools to heal and recover.
As our clinic continues to grow, our aim is to continue to provide you with the best care possible, in line with our core philosophy and approach.
That's why we're excited to welcome Dr. Nathaniel Van Maanen to our team, bringing with him a unique functional movement approach to osteopathy care.
Nat graduated from RMIT University in Melbourne with a Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy). Over the past eight years, he has worked alongside practitioners who utilise a movement-based model of osteopathy influenced by the principles of Applied Functional Science.
Driven by a desire to better understand how the body moves and adapts, Nat completed further training to become a Fellow of Applied Functional Science (FAFS). This advanced qualification has shaped the way he assesses, treats and rehabilitates his patients.
What is a functional movement approach?
Osteopathy encompasses a wide range of assessment and treatment approaches, with practitioners often developing particular areas of interest throughout their careers.
Nat's approach places a strong emphasis on movement, exercise rehabilitation and understanding how the body functions during everyday activities, work and sport.
Drawing on his training in Applied Functional Science, Nat looks at how different areas of the body work together during movement and how these patterns may influence pain, performance and recovery.
While hands-on treatment remains an important part of his care, it is often combined with movement assessment, exercise prescription and strategies designed to help patients build confidence and capacity over time.
This approach is particularly valuable for people who want to better understand their body, improve the way they move and play an active role in their recovery.
By combining osteopathic treatment with targeted movement interventions, Nat aims to help patients not only feel better, but also move better in the long term.
Combining hands-on treatment with movement rehabilitation
Nat's treatment approach combines manual therapy with targeted exercise and movement-based rehabilitation.
Patients can expect:
A detailed discussion of their injury history and health background
Assessment of movement patterns and functional limitations
Hands-on treatment to support mobility and reduce discomfort
Individualised exercise and rehabilitation strategies
Practical guidance around lifestyle, movement habits and long-term health
Nat offers extended consultation times, allowing him to take a thorough and holistic approach to care. This creates the opportunity to explore factors that may be influencing recovery, including movement behaviours, exercise habits, nutrition and overall health.
Welcome to Form Osteopathy, Nat!
Nat's philosophy aligns closely with our commitment to helping patients move better, feel better and stay active.
If you're looking for an osteopath who combines hands-on treatment with a detailed understanding of movement, exercise rehabilitation and whole-person care, we invite you to book an appointment with Dr. Nathaniel Van Maanen and experience his functional movement approach.
For appointments with Nat, visit the Bookings page and select the ‘osteopathy + exercise rehabilitation’ option.