Osteopathic Manual Therapy - Definition

The word osteopathy originates from two Greek words, “osteone” which means structure and “pathos” which means pain. The word, “manual” means that it is a hands-on therapy.

Osteopathy is a natural medicine and science that treats the whole person. It requires extensive study of anatomy and physiology. The principles of osteopathy are based on the relationship between structure and function and understanding the connections between all the tissues, fluids and systems of the body.

Orthopedic and other manual tests and techniques are used to find and treat the root causes of dysfunction, not just the symptoms. The goal of treatment is to restore the integrity and mobility of the structure as much as possible, to improve the function. Once this is accomplished, each person is capable of healing themselves. “Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease.” (Hippocrates, 460 BC – 377 BC)

Gentle, manual, hands-on techniques are used. Osteopaths study for years to develop very sensitive palpation skills and this is what sets them apart from other manual therapists. Like pianists perfect their motor skills through practicing their instrument, an osteopath's sensory skills gradually develop to a level of precision and sensitivity that enables them to detect the subtleties of disturbed tissue or rhythms in the body.