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Unlocking the Power of Osteopathic Care: A Holistic Approach to Health and Wellness

Osteopathic care has gained significant recognition and popularity in recent years due to its holistic approach to healthcare. This patient-centred discipline focuses on understanding the interconnectedness of the body's systems and aims to promote overall well-being by addressing the root causes of health issues. This article will explore what makes osteopathic care so effective, drawing upon relevant references and commentaries.

  • A Focus on Whole-Body Health:

Osteopathic care emphasizes treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms or conditions. By considering the interconnectedness of the body's systems, osteopaths strive to identify and address the underlying causes of health issues rather than merely alleviate symptoms. According to an article published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (JAOA) titled "Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain," osteopathic manipulation techniques can be effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in patients with chronic low back pain (Licciardone et al., 2016).

  • Manual Techniques and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT):

A cornerstone of osteopathic care is using manual techniques, including OMT, to diagnose and treat various conditions. OMT involves skilled manipulation of the musculoskeletal system, which can help restore balance, improve circulation, and promote self-healing mechanisms. An article published in The New England Journal of Medicine titled "Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials" concluded that OMT significantly reduces low back pain in adults compared to control conditions (Licciardone et al., 2015).

  • Integration of Conventional Medicine:

Osteopathic physicians (DOs) undergo rigorous medical training similar to allopathic physicians (MDs), with additional education in osteopathic principles and techniques. This unique combination allows DOs to integrate osteopathic principles into their practice while also utilizing conventional medical approaches when necessary. In an article titled "Osteopathic Medicine: Past, Present, and Future," published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, the authors discuss the comprehensive training that DOs receive and the importance of their integrative approach to patient care (Seffinger et al., 2018).

  • Prevention and Patient Education:

Osteopathic care places a strong emphasis on preventive medicine and patient education. Osteopaths strive to empower patients to take an active role in their own health and well-being by providing them with the knowledge and tools to make informed lifestyle choices. An article published in the JAOA titled "Primary Prevention in Osteopathic Medicine: Past, Present, and Future" highlights the importance of preventive medicine in osteopathic care and its potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes (Henley et al., 2013).

Osteopathic care offers a unique and comprehensive approach to health and wellness, focusing on the interconnectedness of the body's systems and addressing the underlying causes of health issues. Through manual techniques, integrative medicine, and a commitment to preventive care, osteopathic physicians aim to empower patients and promote long-lasting well-being. As evidenced by various studies and articles, osteopathic care has shown promising results in managing pain, improving physical function, and enhancing overall health. Embracing the holistic principles of osteopathy can lead to a more comprehensive and fulfilling approach to healthcare.

Has the National Institute of clinical excellence NICE advisory group to NHS-backed osteopathy in the UK?

As of September 2021, the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has not provided specific guidelines or recommendations regarding osteopathy as a standalone treatment. NICE is responsible for providing evidence-based guidelines for healthcare professionals in the UK to inform their practice and decision-making.

However, it is essential to note that NICE acknowledges the potential benefits of manual therapies, including osteopathic manipulation, in managing specific conditions. For instance, NICE guidelines for The Management Of Low Back Pain and Sciatica (NG59) recommend:

"Considering manual therapy as one of the treatment options, which may include spinal manipulation provided by a healthcare professional trained in manual therapy, such as an Osteopath or Chiropractor."

These guidelines highlight that manual therapies, including osteopathy, may be considered part of a comprehensive treatment plan for certain musculoskeletal conditions. However, consulting with a healthcare professional like our osteopaths is always advisable to determine the most appropriate treatment for your needs.