Osteopathy vs. Conventional Medicine: A Holistic Review of Principles, Practices, and Effectiveness

Erdem Firat Caglar

Abstract: Osteopathy is a holistic medical practice that emphasizes the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Founded in the late 19th century by Andrew Taylor Still, it emerged as a response to the limitations of conventional medicine, which relies heavily on pharmacological and surgical interventions. Osteopathy prioritizes the body's innate ability to heal itself through optimal musculoskeletal function. This paper explores osteopathy?s principles, therapeutic techniques, and its role in contemporary healthcare. A comparative analysis with conventional medicine highlights its potential contributions and limitations, providing insights into its efficacy as a complementary or alternative medical practice.

Keywords: Osteopathic medicine, manual therapy, holistic health, musculoskeletal therapy, integrative medicine