Aims of Osteopathic Diagnosis

Source: www.osteopathic.org/index.cfm?PageID=ost_tenet

The aims of osteopathic diagnosis are two fold:

1. To identify the site of the source of the symptoms and the nature of the tissue disturbance.
2. To assess the mechanical structure and function of the body.

It is the second aim that differentiates the osteopathic approach, both in the evaluation of the patient and consequently in treatment. It emphasizes not only of the local tissue damage or disturbance but also the interaction with the rest of the body. This is a two way process; the local dysfunction has an impact on the rest of the body but equally the local response will be affected by factors in other parts. It is our ultimately our purpose to assist the person to cope with and where possible, overcome the problem so long as it is amenable to an osteopathic approach. Osteopathic musculoskeletal evaluation is unique in that palpation is integrated with motion testing. Osteopathy emphasizes the interrelationships between structure (anatomy) and function (physiology).

But the osteopathic profession sees itself as being relevant to a wide range of health problems, and not simply limited to the treatment of musculoskeletal derangements. Osteopathic theory and practice are firmly in line with the concepts of Hippocrates. The patient is considered and treated as a whole. Founded as it was in this tradition, osteopathy is patient orientated rather than disease orientated. It has utilized structural diagnosis and manipulative treatment as part of its philosophy and practice, and therefore as part of total patient care, not confining it to painful conditions of the musculoskeletal systems alone.

According to the AOA, here are the tenets of osteopathic medicine:

http://www.osteopathic.org/index.cfm?PageID=ost_tenet

Tenets of Osteopathic Medicine

First, do no harm. A thoughtful diagnosis should be made before exposing the patient to any potentially harmful procedure.

Look beyond the disease for the cause. Treatment should center on the cause, with effect addressed only when it benefits the patient in some tangible way.

The practice of medicine should be based on sound medical principles. Only therapies proven clinically beneficial in improving patient outcome should be recommended.

The body is subject to mechanical laws. The science of physics applies to humans. Even a slight alteration in the body’s precision can result in disorders that overcome natural defenses.

The body has the potential to make all substances necessary to insure its health. No medical approach can exceed the efficacy of the body’s natural defense systems if those defenses are functioning properly. Therefore, teaching the patient to care for his own health and to prevent disease is part of a physician’s responsibility.

The nervous system controls, influences, and/or integrates all bodily functions.

Osteopathy embraces all known areas of practice.