About Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a form of medical care founded on the philosophy that all body systems are interrelated and dependent upon one another for self-healing and self-regulation.

HISTORY

Osteopathy was founded by practicing physician Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, MD DO (1828-1917) in 1874. After extensive research, Dr. Still applied concepts of human physiology in maintaining and restoring health. At a time when antibiotics and vaccines were still being discovered, Dr. Still utilized the bodies ability to heal itself with its self-regulating systems. With the use of his hands on patients, Dr. Still discovered a practical way to promote wellness by alleviating stresses on vessels, nerves, muscles, tissues, etc. allowing better functioning of the body to regulate itself.

PRINCIPLES

There are four basic tenants that osteopathy is founded on.

1. Structure and function are interrelated.

2. The body is a single dynamic unit of function. 

3. The body possesses self-healing and self-regulatory mechanisms.

4. Rational treatment is based on applying these principles.

PROCEDURE

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a non-invasive procedure involving the use of the physician's hands directed at the muscles, tissues, ligaments, vessels, nerves, fluids, bones and energy of the body.  OMT works by engaging the innate forces of the body to heal or correct itself by releasing strain patterns imprinted on the body from stresses or trauma.  The physician applies seemingly unintentional forces in a very precise manner at what is termed the key lesion which may not necessarily be in the same location as the area of concern.  The treatment is generally non-painful but can be momentarily painful as areas of restriction are being released.  Shortly following a treatment, there may be some localized pain, fatigue or slight headache which typically disappear within 4 - 24 hours.  Most patients typically have immediate improvement in their initial complaints with often a sense of euphoria.  It is generally advised that a patient refrain from strenuous exercise at least 24-48 hours following a treatment to allow the body to settle in its new state.  Complications with osteopathy are extremely rare.  However, stroke and spinal injury have been reported following manipulation of the neck.  Special care is taken to avoid such risks. 

Indications

The best scientific evidence shows that OMTs are most effective for back and neck pain. In fact, you may be able to reduce the amount of pain medication you are taking for back pain if you receive OMTs as part of your therapy.  Some preliminary evidence also shows that OMTs may be helpful for:
  • Low back pain
  • Ankle injuries
  • Asthma
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Tennis elbow
  • Neck pain
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Recovery after surgery
  • Menstrual pain
  • Depression
  • Infertility
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Contraindications

You should avoid osteopathic manipulation if you have a broken bone or dislocation, bone cancer, a bone or joint infection, damaged ligaments, rheumatoid arthritis of the neck, or osteoporosis. Osteopathic manipulation is not recommended for people who recently underwent joint surgery or for people taking an anticoagulant (blood thinning) medication, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin).