The Practice of Osteopathy

A scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work serves as a comprehensive textbook on osteopathic medicine, providing both foundational theory and practical instruction for students and practitioners in the field. Its primary focus is the explanation, diagnosis, and treatment of disease according to osteopathic principles, particularly emphasizing anatomical causes and manual correction over pharmaceutical or primarily surgical interventions. The opening of this work introduces the philosophy and historical context of osteopathy, highlighting Andrew Taylor Still as the founder and his revolutionary departure from conventional medicine. The authors stress that osteopathy is defined by its unique approach to the causes of disease—specifically the identification and correction of structural lesions (malalignments and dysfunctions in bones, muscles, ligaments, and other tissues) believed to impede nerve and blood flow, thus leading to illness. The text details the types of lesions, their etiological significance, and their systemic impact, setting the stage for how osteopaths diagnose through meticulous physical examination, particularly of the spine and related musculoskeletal structures. The beginning also establishes the rigorous diagnostic and philosophical distinctions between osteopathy and other forms of manual therapy or drug-based medicine, positioning it as an integrative, holistic discipline grounded in anatomy, physiology, and respect for the body's natural healing capabilities.