Mind-Bending Facts About Osteopathy That Will Leave You Stunned

7. Osteopathy VS Physiotherapy

a man undergoing physical therapy. Photo Credit: Dreamstime @Angel

The primary difference between osteopathy and physiotherapy is their philosophies on how the human body works and heals its tissues. Physiotherapy aligns closely with Western medicine and tends to focus more on certain problem areas. Osteopathy has a more holistic approach with the viewpoint that all the systems in an individual's body are interconnected, and the body should be treated as a whole. Education for individuals who perform physiotherapy includes neuromuscular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular training. Physiotherapists provide treatment based on exercise and help with rehabilitation following an injury or surgery. Osteopathic practitioners have an education and training based on palpitation, musculoskeletal health, cranial, visceral, pediatrics, and women's health. Treatment in osteopathy is more than ninety percent hands-on, whereas only sixty percent of physiotherapy is hands-on. Osteopathy is used more for pain and symptom relief, and physiotherapy is used more for rehabilitation and recovery.

8. What Patients Can Expect With Osteopathy

Appointment. Photo Credit: Dreamstime @Peter P

An individual who decides to see an osteopathic practitioner should ensure they are accredited by the American Osteopathic Association. Patients usually attend a consultation with an osteopath before beginning any active management or treatment. The consultation usually lasts for around forty-five minutes and includes a summary of the patient's ailments, health issues, medical history, lifestyle choices, and other relevant information. An examination appointment is carried out after the consultation that can take anywhere from one to two hours. The examination of the patient involves the demonstration of simple movements and stretches that help the practitioner analyze their mobility and posture. Palpitation will be used by the osteopathic practitioner to evaluate the health of a patient's joints, tissues, and ligaments. After the physical examination, the osteopathic practitioner will go over a treatment plan with the patient that includes how many sessions are needed, what the treatment will cost, and what lifestyle changes need to be made.

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