Manipulations, osteopathic goals

The two major goals of osteopathic manipulation of the upper extremity are to restore function and to prevent motion loss. The upper extremity is generally considered one unit when treating with articulatory or thrusting techniques. Each restricted joint must be returned to normal function. 

All of these considerations would be of no use to osteopathic physicians without the possibility of the application of the knowledge. The principle of rational treatment Indicates that understanding the processes can be translated into treatment This can involve the use of osteopathic manipulation in the integrative care of the patient The goal, as usual. Is to facilitate the normal, compensatory mechanisms of the individual s body. 

From the earliest days of osteopathy, direct manipulation of the viscera has been included in the armamentarium of the osteopathic physician. In his last book. Osteopathy, Research and Practice, Andrew T. Still, the founder of osteopathy, discussed the treatment of many disease entities and emphasized the treatment of "lesions" of the vertebrae and ribs as well as describing techniques applied directly to the viscera. His stated goal was always to improve the circulation of arterial and venous blood and lymphatic flow to and from the viscera, as well as assuring proper neural function. His preference in visceral treatment was to have the patient in a knee-chest position, from which he would lift the viscera being treated upward toward the diaphragm. He described using this type of technique in the treatment of dysentery and appendicitis. He used a technique for dyspepsia in which he placed the patient on his right side while he lifted the stomach toward to left. 

Once the physician has determined the working diagnosis and developed a plan for the management of the patient, it is necessary to decide on a plan for the use of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). In making a decision as to which techniques to use, it is helpful to determine the goals of this treatment ... 

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