Author: Elkiss ML, Jerome JA.
Affiliation: Associates in Neurology, PC, 27555 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48334-5011. mitchellelkiss@mac.com.
Conference/Journal: J Am Osteopath Assoc.
Date published: 2012 Aug
Other:
Volume ID: 112 , Issue ID: 8 , Pages: 514-7 , Word Count: 113
The potency of touch in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is physically realized within the musculoskeletal, immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. Psychologically, touch supports a verbal and tactile interaction that is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Touch is a 2-way street that adds meaning and depth to the patient-physician experience. The relationship between touching and being touched offers a potentially powerful and intense deepening of the patient-physician relationship that emerges within the palpatory examination and treatment. Empathic communication, through word or deed, allows a therapeutic, synchronized healing to occur. In the present article, the authors provide a rationale to sensitize and invigorate osteopathic physicians to routinely evaluate and treat patients using their skillful touch.
PMID: 22904249