Ever wonder why the philosophy of Osteopathic Medicine differs from that of other physicians?
The philosophy of Osteopathy is based on 4 principles set forth by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in 1874:
- The body is a whole (Mind, Body & Spirit).
- Structure and function are interrelated (If there is a problem with the function, there is a problem with the structure; if we restore the structure, it can restore the function).
- The body has an inherent capacity for self-regulation, self-healing, and heath maintenance (homeostasis).
- Rational treatment is based upon the application of the above principles.
Dr. Still was an MD on the union side during the Civil War. The standard of care of medicine of that day was to perform non-sterile surgeries (plagued by infections as they did not yet know about germs), especially amputations, (which is why doctors of that era were nicknamed Sawbones); bloodletting & leeching (often to the point of anemia or death); purgatives (chemicals to cause vomiting) or cathartics (to cause diarrhea); heavy metals like mercury (Calomel) which killed syphilis, but rotted teeth, bones & brains; and opiates (Laudanum [tincture of opium, ie, 10% opium: 90% alcohol], morphine and opium) which left many patients addicted.
Still said, “ There must be a better way.” He studied anatomy and the ways of nature to develop the above principles which we use to this day. Today, Osteopathic Medicine is not opposed to surgery or medication, when necessary, but prefers to help the body help heal itself of injury or illness, whenever possible, first.
