# Evidence-based osteopathy: what is it and why is it important?
At Still Point Osteopathy in North Lakes and Ashgrove, we pride ourselves on our evidence based approach to healthcare. What does this mean? Osteopathy itself is a person-centred approach to manual therapy that focuses on the neurological, musculoskeletal and visceral structures of the body [1], or bio-psycho-social model of health
Osteopaths typically utilise a range of therapeutic interventions (including manual therapy, exercise and lifestyle advice) to manage diverse health complaints, although neuro-musculoskeletal conditions are the predominant focus [1] but over all encompases a bio-psycho-social health model.
Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the integration of the best available research evidence, clinical expertise and patient values and preferences in clinical decision making [2]. EBP aims to improve the quality and effectiveness of patient care, as well as reduce unnecessary costs and variations in practice [2].
At Still Point Osteopathy, evidence-based osteopathy (EBO) is the intergration of current literature and the underlying principles in osteopathic practice. EBO requires osteopaths to critically appraise and apply relevant research evidence to their clinical practice, while also considering their own clinical experience and the patient’s individual needs and preferences [3].
EBO is important for several reasons. First, it ensures that your osteopathic treatment is informed by the most current and valid scientific knowledge, rather than by personal opinions, traditions or anecdotes [3]. Second, it enhances the credibility and accountability of osteopathy as a health profession, by demonstrating its commitment to high standards of practice and quality improvement [4]. Third, it fosters a culture of lifelong learning and professional development among osteopaths, by encouraging them to keep up-to-date with new research findings and to evaluate their own practice outcomes [4]. Fourth, it empowers patients to be more involved in their own care, by providing them with clear and transparent information about the benefits and risks of different treatment options [5].
However, EBO also faces some challenges and barriers. One of the main challenges is the lack of high-quality research evidence in osteopathy, especially for some of the specific techniques and approaches used by osteopaths [5]. Another challenge is the difficulty of accessing and appraising research evidence, due to limited time, resources and skills among osteopaths [6]. A third challenge is the variability and complexity of osteopathic practice, which makes it hard to standardise and compare different interventions and outcomes [7]. A fourth challenge is the potential conflict between research evidence and clinical experience or patient preferences, which may require negotiation and compromise [8].
To overcome these challenges and barriers, Still Point Osteopathy has implemented several strategies. The most notable is that we use a wide range of evidence, from Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and pain science databases to assist our treatment models guide decision making processes. The second strategy is to increase the quantity and quality of research in osteopathy, by supporting more funding, collaboration and dissemination of osteopathic research [5]. A third strategy is to improve the education and training of osteopaths in EBP skills, by integrating EBP into the curriculum and providing ongoing professional development opportunities [6]. A Fourth strategy is to develop and implement clinical guidelines and quality indicators for osteopathic practice, based on the best available evidence and expert consensus [7]. A Fifth strategy is to enhance the communication and partnership between osteopaths and patients, by using shared decision making tools and patient-reported outcome measures [8].
Conclusion
In conclusion, Still Point Osteopathy believes EBO is a valuable and necessary aspect of osteopathic practice that can improve patient care and professional standards. However, EBO also requires ongoing efforts from researchers, educators, practitioners and patients to overcome its challenges and barriers. By engaging with EBP in a critical and reflective manner, osteopaths can ensure that their practice is based on sound reasoning and evidence.
References
- [1] Leach MJ et al. An investigation of Australian osteopaths’ attitudes, skill and utilisation of evidence-based practice: a national cross-sectional survey BMC Health Services Research 2019; 19: 498.
- [2] Sackett DL et al. Evidence-based medicine: how to practiceand teach EBM. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone; 2000.
- [3] Grace S et al. Engaging with evidence-based practice inthe osteopathy clinical learning environment: A mixed methods pilot study.
International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 2019; 33–34: 52-58.
- [4] Vaughan B et al. Evidence Based Practice for Osteopathy.Victoria University; 2020.
- [5] The Conversation. Does osteopathy work? 2018.https://theconversation.com/does-osteopathy-work-98848
- [6] Thomson OP et al. Evidence-based medicine: barriersand facilitators for undergraduate students across five European countries – an
overview. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 2014; 17: 46-54.
- [7] Fryer G et al. Evidence, theory and variability in osteopathicpractice. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 2015; 18: 1-4.
- [8] Leach MJ et al. Shared decision making in osteopathy: Aqualitative study. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 2019; 32: 1-7.