Spotlight on Osteopathic Medicine: Celebrating the Contributions of Osteopathic Medical Schools and Practitioners

As we observe Osteopathic Medicine Week from April 17-23rd, it presents an ideal opportunity to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of osteopathic medical schools and practitioners.

Osteopathic medicine focuses on a holistic approach to healthcare, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and the importance of preventative care. This approach has gained traction in recent years as a way to address chronic health conditions and promote overall well-being.

One notable osteopathic physician is Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, who founded the first osteopathic medical school in 1892. His approach to medicine emphasized the importance of hands-on techniques such as manual therapy and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to address musculoskeletal issues and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

Today, there are 38 osteopathic medical schools in the United States, with over 117,000 osteopathic physicians practicing in various fields of medicine. Notable osteopathic physicians and researchers include Dr. Viola Frymann, who specialized in pediatric osteopathy and was a pioneer in the use of OMT in treating newborns and infants, and Dr. John Upledger, who developed craniosacral therapy, a form of osteopathic treatment that focuses on the central nervous system.

The contributions of osteopathic medical schools and practitioners extend beyond the field of medicine, with many osteopathic physicians serving as advocates for public health and community wellness. 

Elentra is proud to support several osteopathic medical schools including Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, and University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine.