Biodynamic osteopathy is a branch of main stream cranial osteopathy; both are based on the work of Dr WG Sutherland DO.
Dr Sutherland discovered subtle movements in the fluids and tissues of his patients. He called this phenomenon the primary respiratory mechanism (PRM). Dr Sutherland believed that the PRM was governed by a transcendental power which he called the Breath of Life.
Further studies by Dr Jealous, the father of Biodynamics, found a correlation and parallel between the work of Dr Sutherland and the studies of Embryologist, Dr Blechschmidt, recognising the embryological forces that created the embryo are also the forces sustaining life, therefore forming the basis of his courses.
Despite the clinical success, the effectiveness of Biodynamics has not been statistically established.
Many books on this subject can be found on: www.booksandbones.com
The profession of Osteopathy was founded in 1874 by a medical doctor living on the American frontier, named Andrew Taylor Still (1827 – 1917).
After losing several family members during encephalitis epidemics, Still was motivated to reconsider the basis for medical therapy to bring them more in line with laws of nature.
Through extensive anatomic and physiological study, Still discovered the significance of living anatomy in health and disease. He realized that optimal health is possible only when all of the tissues and cells of the body function together in harmonious motion. He reasoned that disease could have its origins in slight anatomical deviation from normal.
The work of the osteopath is to adjust the body from the abnormal to the normal; then the abnormal condition gives place to the normal and health is the result of the normal condition.
Still realized that the human being is more than just a physical body. He acknowledged the relationships of the body, mind, emotions and spirit.
As a result of his years of study and the application of his ideas to practice, a sound set of principles were formed for the practice of osteopathic medicine.
The human body is a unit
an integrated organism in which no part functions independently. According to this principle, abnormalities in the structure or function of part of the body may unfavourably influence other parts and eventually the body as a whole.
The body has an inherent capacity to maintain its own health and to heal itself
this principle implies that there must be adequate circulation from all tissues of the body and there must be proper nervous system function in order to coordinate the actions of all of the body's organs and systems.
Structure and function are interrelated
and the musculoskeletal system can reflect changes in and can produce changes in other body systems. Still considered the human body to be a machine. He saw that the musculoskeletal system ( bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues ) was the largest collective system of the body, making us 60 percent or more of the body's mass. Through careful study and experimentation he was able to associate abnormalities in the structural system of the body with signs and symptoms of various diseases. He developed manipulative methods to remove these structural abnormalities to alleviate the patient's illness.
Rational treatment is based upon integration of the first three principles
into the total care of the patient. Thus treatment is based on the principles of body unity, self regulatory and self healing mechanisms, the somatic component of disease, the interrelationship between structure and function and the appropriate use of manipulative treatment.
The first school, the American School of Osteopathy, was founded in Kirksville, Missouri November 1st 1892 by Dr Still where he trained a rapidly increasing number of students. Many people have contributed to the profession. Some outstanding contributors should be mentioned.
J.Martin Littlejohn founded the Chicago College of Osteopathy. He later moved to London where he also founded the British School Of Osteopathy.
Harrison Fryette studied the motion of the spine and of the individual vertebrae.
Fred Mitchell Snr did extensive work with sacral motion and its relation to gait and also helped to develop the muscle energy technique.
Irwin Korr, a physiologist, researched in the field of somatic dysfunction.
Lawrence Jones developed the theories and techniques of strain / counterstrain.
William Garner Sutherland was another student of Still. He developed Cranial Osteopathy and spent many years perfecting its theories and techniques.
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Osteopath
Keywords for content: Osteopathic medicine, Osteo
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The Principles of Osteopathy
Structure and function are inter-related.
Osteopaths recognize that every structure in the body is designed to move. Along with obvious movements, such as crawling, walking, running and skipping, they recognize the importance of internal movements including the circulation of blood, the exchange of gases during breathing, the digestion of food and elimination of waste products.
Osteopaths also understand that the body is constantly adjusting its musculoskeletal system during activity in order to maintain a sense of balance in the body and keep the eyes and ears horizontal. This sense of balance, or lack of it, is central to the Osteopathic discipline.
Osteopaths acknowledge that the body is dynamic and that each region of the body is intrinsically interconnected with every other region. For this reason, Osteopaths recognize that certain symptoms in a particular part of the body may not necessarily be caused by a problem in that area.
Most importantly, Osteopaths realize that within every child there are inherent self-regulating mechanisms. Osteopaths may assist in this process.
How Osteopathy Works
Because Osteopaths look at the "whole" picture of human functioning, they also use a variety of techniques, which acknowledge the many factors which may contribute to balance and health.
To this end, Osteopaths provide advice on diet, exercise, posture and many other aspects of daily life. This comprehensive approach to treatment complements the body's natural functions and may help achieve the highest possible level of health and happiness.
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Is Osteopathy new?
The modern roots of Osteopathic medicine date back to 1872. Dr A.T. Still, a Physician, believed that the body was created as a perfect, harmonious whole and contained the basics necessary for its own healing. He developed a system for stimulating the immune system naturally. He eliminated the use of addictive and toxic drugs from his practice and considered surgery a last resort as a means of treatment. The first Osteopaths came to Australia in 1908 from the U.S.A.
What is Osteopathic Medicine?
Osteopathic medicine is a system of health care that focuses on treatment of the physical body, the joints, muscles and connective tissue with 'hands on' techniques such as deep tactile pressure, stretching and manipulation.
This has several applications including:
- Treating muscular contractions following periods of immobility
- Increasing the quality and range of motion in joints after muscular or joint strain
This, in turn, aims to affect the functioning of the whole body via connections with the nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Osteopaths also offer personal advice on stretching and strengthening exercises, posture, diet, lifting procedures and stress management.
What is an Osteopath?
Osteopaths are Government Registered practitioners of manual medicine. In Australia, three universities offer undergraduate Osteopathic courses with a full-time duration of 5 years.
- RMIT University: Bachelor of Osteopathic Science and Bachelor of Applied Science (Clinical Science)
- Victorian University: Bachelor of Science (Clinical Science) and Masters of Health Science (Osteopathy)
- Southern Cross University: Southern Cross university : Bachelor of Science (clinical science)
Do I need a referral?
No. It is not necessary to have a Doctor's referral to consult an Osteopath. However, there are increasing numbers of General Practitioners referring patients to Osteopaths and it is often necessary to consult with the patient's Doctor. Osteopaths will also refer patients to appropriate Diagnostic Examinations and/or other specialists, when necessary.
Is Osteopathic treatment available under Medicare?
Yes. With the Government initiative under Medicare Team Care Plan, patients with chronic conditions may be referred by their GP for Osteopathic medicare treatment. All other major health funds cover part of the cost of Osteopathic treatment under their ancillary or 'extras' cover. 
Osteopaths are registered providers for Workers' Compensation Schemes and Motor Accident Insurers.
Osteopaths are registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency).
Is Osteopathic treatment available under Private Health?
Yes – HICAPS is available so you can claim with your Private Health Fund on the day of your treatment.
How do I find an Osteopath?
Registered Osteopaths can be found listed under 'Osteopaths' on the Osteopathy Australia Website : www.osteopathy.org.au or Google Osteopaths in your city.
