Osteopathy is a holistic system of healthcare that emphasizes the body's natural ability to heal itself. Osteopaths believe that the structure of the body affects its function, and vice versa. Osteopaths use a variety of hands-on techniques, including massage, stretching, and joint manipulation, to help the body heal and maintain its natural balance.

Osteopathy is based on the following principles:

The body is a self-healing organism.
Structure and function are interrelated.
The body is a unit.
Blood vessels, nerves, and fascia (connective tissue) are vital to health.