OSTEOPATHY, a system of healing, founded by Dr. A. T. Still. In spite of the apparent etymology of the name, the system does not confine itself to the treat ment of bone diseases, but claims to be a general system founded on the prin ciple that "all bodily disorders are the result of mechanical obstruction to the free circulation of vital fluids and forces." Its apparently marvelous cures are accomplished through purely scien tific methods, based on a profound knowl edge of the human mechanism. The diag nosis is largely through the sense of touch, which is developed to its highest perfection. The osteopath takes the position that when all obstructions to the proper direction of the life giving and healing energies that are resident in the body—such as maladjustments or ab normalities of the bodily machine in any of its parts—are detected and corrected, by a thorough knowledge of anatomy and physiology, nature fast regains her equilibrium of health and strength. No
medicine whatever is used and no surgery employed, except in cases where the lat ter is needed exclusively. In 1892 Dr. Still organized a college at Kirksville, Mo., under the laws of that State. A large building was erected in 1895 and additions made in 1896. The school be gan with 28 students and has steadily increased in numbers. It has between 300 and 400 students.
The first state to legalize the practice of osteopathy was Vermont in 1896. Missouri, Michigan and North Dakota in 1897. Iowa 1898. South Dakota, Illi nois and Tennessee 1899. Osteopathy is now practiced in England, Ireland, Scot land, France, Germany and Sweden. The parent schools of the American Society of Osteopathy, Kirksville, Mo., established in 1892, has graduated 2000 practitioners.