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
©1996 - 2007 Tucson Osteopathic Medical Foundation
.
