The Training of an Osteopath
Anatomy, physiology and pathology are all studied and the pre-clinical course, similar to that at orthodox medical schools, teaches students to examine all the systems of the body in order to make a conventional clinical diagnosis.
The osteopathic student receives advanced training in the detailed examination of the musculo-skeletal system and in the mechanics of the body and then develops the manual skills necessary for diagnosis and treatment.
Osteopathic training is demanding and lengthy, and a recognised qualification is only available from osteopathic educational institutions accredited by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Trainee osteopaths study anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics and clinical methods during a four or five year honours degree programme. Such wide-ranging medical training gives osteopaths the skills to diagnose conditions when osteopathic treatment is not advisable, and the patient must be referred to a GP for further investigation.
Osteopaths are committed to a programme of continuing professional development.