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Osteopathy Definition

Osteopathy is a medical healing system that is based upon the theory that many diseases result from abnormalities or irregularities of the body's structure, as defined by in the New International Dictionary the English Language. These conditions are then treated and corrected by osteopathic manipulation of the affect area.

  1. Etymology

    • Merriam-Webster states that osteopathy is from the Latin word, "osteopathia." The Online Etymology Dictionary relates that it is from the Greek word "osteon" meaning bone and "patheia" meaning disease, suffering or feeling. It literally means "disease of the bones."

    Function

    • The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that osteopathy focuses on the musculoskeletal system---bones, muscles and nerves.

    History

    • Osteopathy dates back to 1857, according to the Online Etymology Dictionary. In 1874, Andrew Taylor Still founded the study of osteopathy.

    Significance

    • In addition to diagnosing and treating disease, Dr. Still taught doctors the importance and techniques of adjusting the musculoskeletal system for maximum recovery. Today, osteopathic medical students study the equivalent education of conventional medical schools plus an additional 700 hours.

    Considerations

    • Osteopathic manipulative techniques (OMT) focus on the alignment of the spine as it relates to the nerve paths from the spine to the affected area or organ.

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