What is Osteopathy?

“Osteopathy is the knowledge of the structure, relation and function of each part of the human body applied to the correction of whatever interferes with its harmonious operation.”
- George V. Webster, D.O., 1921

In Ontario, Osteopathic Manual Practioners maintain, improve or restore the normal physiological function of interrelated body structures and systems, to enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Osteopaths use various manual assessments, treatment techniques and modalities to help people of all ages and backgrounds who suffer injury, pain or other health concerns. They use these techniques to ease pain, reduce swelling, improve tissue mobility and promote efficient healing.

Osteopathic Manual Practioners seek to identify and then gently ease restrictions so the body can function normally again.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has created the “Benchmark for Training in Osteopathy” which explains the integration of Manual Osteopathic Therapy into the healthcare system. This document also defines the standards of Manual Osteopathic Therapy. The entire document can be viewed here:
http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2010/9789241599665_eng.pdf

Osteopathic Manual Therapists work one on one with each patient using gentle manipulative techniques applied to the areas identified as needing treatment. Using their knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics the Osteopath addresses not only the piece of tissue causing the disturbance they also identify and correct the type of tissue such as fascia, peritomeum, ligamentous, dural, etc., maintaining the problem. Which is central to often why the dysfunction has not responded to other forms of treatment. Osteopathic manual therapy is patient centered and addressed the idea of what the tissue needs most to return to a normal state of health. As Dr. Still said “It is the job of the Osteopath to find health, anyone can find disease”.

Link to Ontario Association of Osteopaths: osteopathyontario.org