A study to investigate osteopaths' and acupuncturists' perceptions of each other's profession
Item
- Title
- A study to investigate osteopaths' and acupuncturists' perceptions of each other's profession
- Author(s)
- Perera Diluka
- Abstract
-
ABSTRACTOsteopathy and acupuncture have become two of the most popular complementary / alternative medicines in the UK today. Both therapies are very holistic in nature regarding their diagnostic and treatment skills. The important link between a patient's psyche and soma is largely emphasised in the two professions. There is limited research on the subject of combining treatments of acupuncture and osteopathy and inter-referring between the two. Little evidence stands to suggest that combined treatments would be contra indicatory to patient health.
Two hundred and forty fully registered, London based practitioners were chosen at random to participate in this study via postal or e-mailed questionnaire. The aims and objectives of the study were to investigate the perceptions and knowledge of practitioners on acupuncture and osteopathy. Inter-referrals between the two are still uncommon today, so subjects were questioned on their opinions.
A total of 137 questionnaires where collected, 68 osteopaths, 52 acupuncturists and 17 practitioners trained in both osteopathy and acupuncture (OA). The results were categorised into these three main groups of practitioners. The majority of replies displayed a mutual positive attitude towards both therapies, however knowledge on treatment skills was poor. Both professions generally advocated inter-referrals and 82% of OA practitioners agreed that they should be encouraged. A significant 43% of OA subjects felt that the lack of inter-referrals was maintained by a 'lack of knowledge in opposite profession.'
87% of acupuncture and 96% of osteopathic respondents were willing to learn more about each other, which shows promise for further research on this topic.
Future research into inter-referrals and patient effects in combined treatments would not only increase public awareness but also promote additional recognition for both professions. - presented at
- British College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Date Accepted
- 0
- Date Submitted
- 1.1.1970 00:00:00
- Type
- osteo_thesis
- Language
- English
- Submitted by:
- 62
- Pub-Identifier
- 13598
- Inst-Identifier
- 1076
- Recommended
- 0
- Item sets
- Thesis
Perera Diluka, “A study to investigate osteopaths' and acupuncturists' perceptions of each other's profession”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed May 2, 2024, https://www.osteopathic-research.com/s/orw/item/1159