Classification of Osteopathic Techniques

Abstract

The original classification of osteopathic techniques was evolved at the turn of the twentieth century and was divided into the general terms of soft tissue, articulation and thrust. While these were useful, they were limited and caused some problems. They were restricted in terms of dialogue between practitioners, or in ability to communicate the exact purpose of the technique being performed. Various attempts were made to reclassify the different approaches, and in the early 1970s a team of teachers at the BSO formed a new classification list. Although these have been modified slightly since that time, they remain broadly the same today. Other systems of classification exist, but I have chosen to keep to the BSO system in this work. When something is classified, it is unfortunately limited by that very classification. Despite this, it is clearly necessary to have some form of definition of the actual procedures used so that teaching can be systematized. It must be realized however, that any classification causes some problems, and will not necessarily be in accord with the particular approach of an individual practitioner.