Bacon, S. and Roe, C. A. (2018) Investigating practitioners' perceptions of the role of spirituality in osteopathic practice using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine. 29, pp. 3-9. 1746-0689.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | Background: There is a growing interest in a spiritual aspect to health and healthcare in many areas of medicine, but there has been little research that explores the potential spiritual aspect within osteopathic practice. Aim: The aim of this phenomenological study was to explore the perceived nature, role, function and value of spirituality within osteopathic practice from a practitioner perspective. Methods: Five experienced osteopaths were interviewed and recordings were transcribed and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Themes were identified and a description of the lived experience of spirituality in osteopathic practice emerged. Results: Three master themes were identified: [A], A Holistic Approach to wellbeing, drew attention to the role of the mind-body connection and a belief in self-healing; [B], The therapeutic relationship, recognised that the therapeutic relationship was mediated by a sense of connectedness and practitioner self-awareness; [C], Intuitive Engagements, recognised a transpersonal connection through touch and intuition, instantiated in sub-themes underlining the role of touch and other ways of knowing. Conclusions: In this study spirituality in osteopathic practice was perceived to be reflected in a holistic approach to illness and wellbeing, facilitated by the therapeutic relationship. The Therapeutic relationship was seen to be influenced through a sense of interconnectedness, the role of touch and intuitive insights. We conclude that respondents identify a spiritual dimension in osteopathic practice, which served to support a holistic approach, and influence positive outcomes. |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Osteopathic care, Osteopathy, Spirituality, Therapeutic relationship, Touch |
| Creators: | Bacon, Simon and Roe, Chris A |
| Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: | Research Centres > Centre for Psychology and Social Sciences |
| Date: | 1 September 2018 |
| Date Type: | Publication |
| Page Range: | pp. 3-9 |
| Journal or Publication Title: | International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine |
| Volume: | 29 |
| Number of Pages: | 7 |
| Language: | English |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijosm.2018.07.005 |
| ISSN: | 1746-0689 |
| Status: | Published / Disseminated |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| URI: | http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/11134 |
Actions (login required)
 |
Edit Item |
Altmetric
Altmetric
Altmetric