Title : Osteopathy – A new specialty in clinical medicine: From empiricism to a scientific approach
Abstract:
Over the past 150 years, osteopathy has evolved from an empirical practice to an established scientific discipline, achieving significant development both in Russia and globally. This presentation highlights the milestones in the establishment of osteopathy as a medical specialty in Russia and its evolution into a scientific field, focusing on the methods and instruments employed in its research and practice. The report provides a historical overview of the development of osteopathy in Russia, including its professional regulation at the state level. It also addresses critical topics such as the challenges faced by modern medicine, the definition of somatic dysfunction, mechanisms of its development, mechanotransduction, the impact of osteopathic correction on tissue viscosity and neurodynamic disorders, as well as collaboration between osteopaths and physicians of other specialties. Additionally, the presentation explores a systemic approach to health and the role of osteopathy within the framework of healthcare system. The report will also feature a series of randomized scientific studies conducted at the Mechnikov North-West State Medical University. Today, osteopathy possesses all the hallmarks of a scientific discipline, supported by its own methodological framework and research apparatus.