ORIGINS AND PRINCIPLES

Osteopathy began in the late 19th Century in the United States of America. His founder, Dr. Andrew Taylor Still (1828-1917), was unhappy with the aggressive methods and poor results of medicine in his time, and in the search for effective alternatives he realized that normalization of body structure improved its physiology. Once the body was ‘aligned’ (Dr. Still used bones as a reference for diagnosis and treatment, and this is where the name osteopathy comes from), it was surprisingly capable of recovering from all kinds of problem, from a headache to an infection. Still emphasized the importance of free circulation of blood and lymph to maintain health. His hypotheses was that loss of mobility or excessive tension would bother fluid dynamics in the body, a state he would try to manually correct with his treatments.

HOW IS A VISIT TO THE OSTEOPATH?

First, a detailed case history is taken, including the present complain, general health, and life style. After that, a complete physical examination is performed to determine the most probable origin for the problem. If necessary, a medical consultation or complementary tests can be indicated. Treatment starts in the first consultation. 2-3 treatments are usually enough to overcome an acute episode. Chronic cases usually require longer treatment periods.

Techniques are completely safe and painless. Usually osteopathy is only associated with thrust techniques that produce an articular ‘pop’. These techniques are not always indicated, and many times are not the most effective option. The treatment approach will depend on specific necessities of the patient and on the particular style and clinical experience of the osteopath.

After the treatment, exercise or other accompanying measures can be indicated to enhance its effectiveness and prevent new episodes.

PRESENT SITUATION OF OSTEOPATHY IN SPAIN

Although osteopathy is not officially recognized in Spain yet, the Spanish Register of Osteopaths (Registro de Osteópatas de España, www.osteopatas.org) gathers Osteopaths appropriately trained in health care. Osteopathic studies are offered at present as a Masters Degree (MSc) after a Bachelor in Health Sciences (most osteopaths in Spain are previously physiotherapists).