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Institut des Hautes Etudes Ostéopathiques
Orvault, France |
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a distinct approach to healthcare, based on a well-established system of clinical diagnosis. Osteopaths focus on the structure of the body, using safe, natural, manual treatment that offers a caring approach to the individual needs of each patient at all stages of life, from birth to old age.
Predominantly gentle manipulative techniques are used to correct joint and tissue imbalances, allowing restoration of harmony within the patient's body. Osteopathy treats the person not just the disorder. The objective is the promotion of long-term health.
How does an osteopath work?
Osteopaths do not use drugs or any other invasive treatments. Instead, their skill lies in their highly trained sense of touch, which enables their hands to diagnose and treat the underlying causes of pain.
History
It was an American doctor, Andrew Taylor Still, who in 1874 coined the word "osteopathy" and laid down its fundamental principles. Dr. Still, through his clinical experiences, discoveries and inspiration, was the first physician to realise fully the profound relationship between the structure of the body and the way in which it functions. Still's interpretation of cause and effect in the evolution of disease gives osteopathy a very special place in the history of the healing arts.
