Osteopathic manipulation is a whole system of evaluation and treatment designed to achieve and maintain health by restoring normal function to the body. In this context, manipulation means the therapeutic application of manual pressure or force. Following are descriptions of some of the osteopathic manipulation techniques commonly used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose and treat patients.
Soft-Tissue Technique
Commonly applied to the muscle area around the spine, this procedure consists of a rhythmic stretching, deep pressure, and traction while monitoring response and motion changes by palpation (touching or feeling). It also is called myofascial treatment.
Lymphatic Technique
This technique promotes circulation of the lymphatic fluids and is used to relieve upper and lower respiratory infections. The physician applies pressure to a prone patient's upper anterior chest wall. When the applied force reaches a peak as the patient exhales, the physician quickly removes his/her hands. This helps the body's respiratory system move the lymphatic fluids.
Thrust Technique
This procedure uses high velocity/low amplitude force to restore motion to a joint and reduces or eliminates the signs of tissue changes, asymmetry, restricted movement, and tenderness.
Muscle Energy Technique
The patient is directed to use his or her muscles from a precise position and in a specific direction against a counterforce applied by the physician.
Counterstrain
The patient is moved away from a position where motion is restricted to one of greater comfort. This technique is used in cases that are too acute or too delicate to be treated in other ways.
Sources: Colorado Society of Osteopathic Medicine; Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation
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