Orthomanual Medicine

A definition is: 'Orthomanual medicine is the totality of knowledge and skills to understand, diagnose and treat patients with complaints to the musculoskeletal system in a conservative (= without operation) way. In particular, this involves the detection of reversible shape and function disorders by means of sophisticated orthopedic examination techniques, and the treatment thereof by means of specific manual actions. It is Dutch.

Professional profile

The professional profile NVOMG (Dutch Society of OrthoManual Medicine nowadays called NVAMG: Dutch Society of doctors in Musculoskeletal Medicine) describes in more detail what the doctor orthomanual medicine must meet in order to be able to carry out his profession properly. With regard to medical treatment, the doctor of orthomanual medicine must:

  • take a good anamnesis
  • use diagnostic methods in which segmental position, motion and kinetic chain examination are integrated
  • where necessary, have additional examinations carried out such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT and MRI scan
  • be able to apply different treatment techniques: mobilisations, manipulations, medication, injection techniques, soft tissue techniques, simple exercise therapy
  • give advice on ergonomics, aids and referral
  • evaluate the examination and treatment with the patient.

Joints ...

From the foregoing it can be concluded that there is a special interest in orthomanual medicine for the joint function (for example hip, shoulder, wrist joint, but also vertebral and pelvic joints). Many complaints are seen from the viewpoint that the static and/or dynamics in a joint has been disturbed (see also the articles on orthomanipulation and manual medicine). This has its consequences for the immediate environment of the joint, for example a tense muscle, but also for the total organism (humans) that will adapt (behavior) to the changed characteristics. Thus, a disturbed joint function can have far-reaching consequences.

... and more!

The attention in OrthoManual Medicine is therefore mainly focused on the joint function. In practice for musculoskeletal medicine in Groningen and Bellingwolde there is also attention for the integrity of the band apparatus, the muscle condition, the coordination from the nervous system, and if necessary also the general condition, nutritional status, cognitions, behavior, and so on. In other words: on everything that is important for the optimal functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Orthomanual medicine is changing in musculoskeletal medicine.

 

References

Hogezand MB van. OrthoManuele Geneeskunde. SWOMM 2011.

Beroepsprofiel arts OrthoManuele Geneeskunde. NVOMG 213. NVOMG 2009.

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