Osteopathy
Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural and functional integrity of the body. Osteopathy is primarily a hands-on manual treatment. It is based on the principle that health depends on the inter-relationship of various parts of the body.
In some countries, such as the UK, osteopaths have now become primary allied healthcare providers and are often the first point of contact for people seeking help for their pain and injuries.
History of Osteopathy
Osteopathy was founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, during the American Civil War. Dr. Still realised that his patients' health was affected by the way they used their bodies and that the mainstream medical approach was not always effective. In 1874, he formed a new method of treatment that used spinal and peripheral manipulation, which he called Osteopathy. In 1892, the first Osteopathic school was opened in Kirksville, Missouri, where Dr. Still worked as a principal and tutor. In 1917, Dr. Martin Littlejohn, a student of Dr. Still’s opened the first English school of osteopathy. Osteopathy has since expanded globally with a number of schools now operating in the USA, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Osteopathy in the USA has continued to be taught as a medical qualification with practitioners qualifying with a Doctor in Osteopathy. Whereas outside of America osteopathy is a manual medicine qualification, with practitioners attaining a BSc (Hon) or Masters (MSc). In some countries, the title of an osteopath is legally protected and the profession is regulated.
If you require any further information regarding how osteopathy may be beneficial for you please do not hesitate to contact us.