Today, I was asked to help a student, (who is trying to decide if he should become an osteopath. He asked, “What do osteopaths really do differently…? When I read my message back to Eleanor, she said I should share it with our community, as many of you are not osteopaths and may be interested…

Osteopathy is a holistic system of medicine that embraces all elements of the being; internal and external. Assessment is as important as treatment to the osteopath, because it is through the process of assessment (and process of elimination) that we evaluate the health and wellness of any given individual.

It’s through in-depth investigation and questioning that the osteopath reaches a list of differential diagnoses, which typically range from MSK in origin through to pathological. And it is with these hypothesis in mind, that the osteopaths either refers (if required) or develops a treatment and management plan, suited to the most likely cause of dis-ease. Outcomes are carefully assessed each visit and modifications made where necessary.

Osteopathic treatment itself, utilises the body’s natural healing mechanisms and through the musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiovascular system, implements techniques that aid recovery and improvement of overall function and health.

When we look at this model for animals, the only thing that changes is terminology. This is because of regulations pertaining to the treatment of animals. For example, in many countries only vets can “diagnose”. Consequently, animal osteopaths instead use the term “Osteopathic Hypothesis”. I hope you have found this short article of interest. Have a lovely day. Dustie 🙏🏼