Table 2 Osteopathic diagnostic models
From: Understanding clinical reasoning in osteopathy: a qualitative research approach
Biomedical | Consideration of signs and symptoms in the context of defined diseases and need for referral for further medical assessment and management (red flags). |
Biomechanical | Assessment of the health of the musculoskeletal system, including how the structure (posture) and function are integrated. |
Respiratory/circulatory | Examination of the respiratory mechanism, ensuring that breathing function is optimal. Assessment of all tissues of the body for full blood supply and drainage, and of the structural and functional relationship between the two systems. |
Neurological | Assessment of function in the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems, and the relationship of those systems to all tissues of the body. |
Nutritional | Foundational dietary analysis for signs of deficiency or suboptimal nutritional status. |
Behavioural | Consideration of the psychosocial factors influencing health, including relational, occupational and financial, and the need for multidisciplinary care. |
Energy expenditure | Assessment of optimal energy utilisation, and consideration of issues that may affect the healing process (e.g. relatively minor mechanical or immune dysfunctions). |