Osteopathy is a non-invasive form of manual therapy incorporating manipulation of muscles and joints (similar to chiropractic and physiotherapy) to affect the body’s systems and facilitate its natural ability to heal and regulate itself. More specifically, this form of therapy is focused on blood flow.
The practice was founded initially in the 1870s by Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician and surgeon who viewed the body as having the natural ability to heal when functioning effectively. According to the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy, “Osteopathy is a science, a philosophy, and a practice.” The approach officially became known as ‘Osteopathy’ in 1885, and in 1892 Still formed the American School of Osteopathy in Kirkville, USA, to teach others his methodologies.
With success and increased interest, the practice of Osteopathy was further established in Britain in 1913, “when one of Still’s early students, John Martin Littlejohn, returned to London to practice and with the aim of setting up ‘a standard of osteopathic science, to show the public what the science is and to clinically demonstrate its efficiency’. He established the first osteopathic school in the country, the British School of Osteopathy, in 1917” (University College of Osteopathy).
The practice of Osteopathy has continued to evolve as it is informed by experience and ongoing research. It is now recognized by the World Health Organization and other international bodies as a complementary therapy alongside traditional medicine.
Our Osteopathic Manual Practitioner, Jacob Mitton, is taking new clients! 😃 With main street accessibility in the heart of lovely St. Thomas, River of Life looks forward to being part of your wellness journey. Use our online booking software to schedule your appointment today.
References:
- University College of Osteopathy. No Date. “A brief history of osteopathy.” Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://www.uco.ac.uk/about-osteopathy/what-osteopathy/brief-history-osteopathy
- Canadian Academy of Osteopathy. No Date. “About Principles-Based Osteopathy.” Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://canadianosteopathy.ca/about-osteopathy/
