This module, presented by Caroline Stone, introduces systemic and visceral osteopathy, emphasizing its philosophical approach to healthcare rather than being just a collection of techniques. It aims to educate both emerging osteopaths and other healthcare professionals about osteopathy's holistic view of health. Contrary to common perceptions, osteopathy is not strictly biomechanical but focuses on the body's dynamic functions, self-regulation, and complex interconnections. Systemic osteopathy involves examining the body as a whole, addressing not only physical pain but also other factors like circulation, immune function, and cellular respiration. The practice involves touch and manipulation of the body's tissues, working with the person to enhance self-repair, rather than focusing solely on the site of the symptoms. It integrates principles of emergence, vitality, and homeostasis.
The module covers models of disease, health, and embodied health, and it explores how osteopathy supports patients, even when conventional medical approaches may fall short. The course also highlights osteopathy's role in complementary, supplementary, and sometimes alternative care, encouraging a collaborative dynamic between osteopathic practitioners and patients to navigate health challenges. The module emphasizes the evidence-based and intuitive aspects of osteopathy and its contribution to health systems.
- Teacher: Caroline Stone
This module, introduced by Caroline Stone, is an overview of paediatric osteopathy, designed for osteopaths and other healthcare professionals interested in understanding the osteopathic approach to pediatric care. Stone emphasizes that paediatric osteopathy is not synonymous with cranial osteopathy, a common misconception. While cranial osteopathy is one technique, the practice of paediatric osteopathy involves a holistic approach that integrates the entire body and its systems.
The module covers foundational concepts such as the role of touch in osteopathy, which is more than just superficial; it engages with the body's developmental, sensory, neural, and physiological processes. Osteopaths consider how a child's movement, sensory experiences, and bodily functions are interconnected, supporting the child’s health and development holistically.
The focus is not just on biomechanical elements but on the child’s emerging sense of self, stress regulation, immune development, and emotional and social competence. Each osteopath’s approach is individualized, dependent on the child’s unique developmental stage and sensory experiences, and physiological capacity. Through this lens, osteopathy provides support for children’s growth, learning, and overall well-being.
The module aims to share how osteopathic practice contributes to a multidisciplinary approach to paediatric care, fostering collaboration between osteopaths, children, families, and other healthcare professionals.
- Teacher: Caroline Stone