Osteopath
Osteopath
Osteopath (/ˈɒstiəʊpæθ/; from the Greek osteon, meaning "bone", and pathos, meaning "suffering") is a type of alternative medicine that emphasizes physical manipulation of the body's muscle tissue and bones.
Etymology
The term "osteopath" was coined by Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician who founded the practice in the late 19th century. It is derived from the Greek words osteon (bone) and pathos (suffering), reflecting the focus of the practice on the role of the musculoskeletal system in health and disease.
Practice
Osteopaths use a range of physical manipulations and techniques, such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance, known as osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), to promote the healing process. They believe that the body's structure and function are closely related and that this relationship is critical to overall health. Osteopaths also often provide advice on diet, exercise, and lifestyle.
Regulation and training
In many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, osteopathy is a regulated profession. Osteopaths are required to complete a degree in osteopathy, undertake continuing professional development, and adhere to a code of practice. In the United States, osteopaths are also fully licensed physicians and are referred to as Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).
Related terms
- Osteopathic medicine in the United States
- Osteopathic manipulative medicine
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
- Andrew Taylor Still
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Osteopath
- Wikipedia's article - Osteopath
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