Osteopathic manipulative treatment in pediatric care: from the inception of osteopathic medicine to 1950, a historical literature review.

Abstract

Context: Since its inception, osteopathic medicine has included pediatric patients within its clinical scope, addressing a wide range of congenital, postural, respiratory, neurological, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Objectives: This study aimed to review historical osteopathic literature for the analysis of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) utilized for the management of pediatric patients.

Methods: This structured historical literature review, conducted between June and October 2025, examined osteopathic literature published from 1874 to 1950, with a focus on pediatric OMT. Online archive searches were conducted utilizing Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)-derived keywords. Articles were screened for relevance to OMT in pediatric patients and caregiver guidance, excluding those that did not provide details on manipulative interventions. The assessed outcomes encompassed reported health conditions, the use of OMT, the duration of osteopathic interventions, guidance provided to caregivers, and the outcomes reported. Data were analyzed utilizing a reflective brainstorming model, with findings organized into key themes relevant to contemporary osteopathic practice. Articles lacking descriptions of manipulative interventions were excluded.

Results: The initial literature search identified 227 articles, of which 126 were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria. A total of 28 articles were deemed eligible and included in this review. The extracted data are structured into five thematic areas: health issues reported, OMT, time frame of. OMT, caregiver guidance and behavioral approaches, and reported outcomes. These data are presented through integrated narrative and tabular syntheses.

Conclusions: This review highlights the evolution of osteopathic medicine in pediatrics, emphasizing its role in managing various pediatric conditions with gentle, individualized treatments. Osteopathic medicine focuses on improving health, restoring function, and preventing invasive interventions. Its child- and family-centered approach aligns with modern healthcare models that prioritize prevention and well-being. Given its safety and effectiveness, particularly in musculoskeletal and developmental disorders, osteopathic medicine remains a valuable tool in pediatric care. Further research is needed to validate these findings and to expand osteopathic medicine's role in child health, fostering a more integrated healthcare model.