Osteopaths

Osteopaths are health care professionals who practice osteopathy, a system of medicine based on the principle that the body's structure and function are interrelated. They use a hands-on approach to examine, diagnose, and treat problems of the musculoskeletal system and related tissues, with the aim of supporting the body's innate ability to heal. Osteopathy emphasizes the interrelationship between nerves, muscles, bones, and connective tissue, and regards the whole person, not just a specific symptom.

Practices commonly involve osteopathic manual therapy (OMT), which includes soft tissue techniques, joint mobilization, stretching, and, in some countries, high-velocity thrusts. Practitioners may also provide advice on exercise, posture, nutrition, and lifestyle, and may employ conventional medical tests or refer patients to other health professionals when appropriate.

Training and regulation vary by country. In the United States, doctors of osteopathy (DOs) complete an accredited medical school program and hold full medical licenses; they may use OMT as one among many tools. In the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and parts of Europe, osteopathy is regulated as a profession focusing on manual therapy, typically requiring a bachelor’s or master’s degree in osteopathy and registration with a regulatory body such as a national college or council. In some places, osteopathic practitioners are distinct from medical physicians, while in others they are licensed physicians who also use OMT.

Evidence on effectiveness is strongest for certain musculoskeletal conditions such as nonspecific low back pain and neck pain, where OMT can be part of a multimodal treatment plan. Osteopathy is not intended to treat diseases outside the musculoskeletal system, and safety depends on practitioner training and patient factors.