Historical Technique: Dr. Still’s Knees to Chest Method

Here we draw on descriptions from Dr. Still regarding his quadriped methods with the patient’s knees on the ground and their chest on a stool. Instead of showing this method in its exact form we show modifications to demonstrate the underlying concepts.

Historical Technique: Dr. Still’s Clavicle Methods

Here we provide quotes from Dr. Still as to how he approached clavicle treatment followed by demonstration of the methods. We also provide an understanding of the concepts that will guide you to perform and modify these methods.

Old School Cranial…

Here we utilize a description of working on the nasal bones from Osteopathy: Research and Practice (1910). The description of working on the nasal bones allows for demonstration of the described method as well as discussion and expansion of the concept. Common perceptual issues on the part of the practitioner are also discussed.

Old School Hip Work…

Here we utilize a description from Osteopathy: Research and Practice (1910) as the starting point for a demonstration and discussion. We demonstrate what the method likely looked/looks like while also identifying how the concepts of Contact is Control and Relational Motion may be identified in the description/demonstration. In identifying the concepts we understand how, as heuristics and guidelines, the concepts of Relational Motion and Contact is Control are able to guide treatment methods for effectiveness and safety.

Begin With “I Don’t Know”

The investigative mind seems to require the ability to say “I don’t know”. From the starting point of “I don’t know” investigation may begin. Being honest with the limitations of facts or knowledge is extremely useful…we don’t begin with a conclusion. We may have useful information that points in a direction but, if we are not honest about the limits of that information, we may take it as information that is stronger than the limitations which it presents.

Osteopathy is to be Discovered…

As the title I chose states, Osteopathy is to be discovered. I make that statement for 3 reasons:

1. Being an Osteopathic Operator is a process of consistent evolution regardless of whether or not one is attempting to grow, they are forced to grow through experience (if they don’t grow they are ignorant of themselves on a daily basis)
2. My training at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy showed me this through the thoughts and discussions I have had with Robert Johnston who demonstrated this to me through his teaching and ideas
3. Dr. Still told anyone that chooses to read his books that it is to be discovered!

Model Operator

How does one go about learning to be an Osteopath? What does one need to know? First and foremost a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy is absolutely required (functional anatomy includes physiology in my mind). The principles governing body functions are necessary knowledge as well. Knowing those two broad topics may leave someone out in the cold if they have no exposure to actual hands-on methods. The dilemma for the Principles based teacher or practitioner is how to introduce hands-on methods without having the student taking the demonstrated method as the only way to actually apply treatment? Further to that, how does the Principles based teacher or practitioner bridge the gap between telling a student that they NEED to do something a SPECIFIC way while they are learning it to ensure safety and once they have mastered that method they are required to create their own way?