Incorporating the Four Tenets into the Osteopathic Clinical Approach

Authors

  • Leslie Ching Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Julie Dionne Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Cameron Henderson Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Jennifer Wilson Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine

Abstract

The Four Tenets of Osteopathic Medicine are reviewed in the first year of medical school but not often consciously discussed or incorporated into clinical practice. This article reviews research into psychological and physical interconnections, how the patient’s self-healing capacities may be viewed, and the theoretical background and application of the structure-function relationship. Regarding rational treatment, the fourth tenet, biopsychosocial and other healing approaches are explored in the context of osteopathic manipulative medicine. A representative case is discussed in order to illustrate how these concepts may apply for a patient.

Author Biographies

Leslie Ching, Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Associate Professor; OMM Department

Julie Dionne, Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Assistant Professor, OMM Department

Cameron Henderson, Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Assistant Professor; OMM Department

Jennifer Wilson, Oklahoma State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine

Department Chair and Clinical Associate Professor; OMM Department

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Published

2025-10-30

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 5 (2025): Articles

Section

Medical Education

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