Osteopathic self-treatment to promote health and the Body's ability to fight COVID-19

Abstract

In the growing pandemic of COVID-19, the reality many face includes insufficient testing, limited personal protective equipment (PPE), and high risk of infection to those on the front lines providing essential care. With a lack of effective treatment and no vaccine in sight, a high rate of morbidity and mortality looms. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) has been shown in numerous studies to support the body's own healing mechanisms, including beneficial effects on respiratory infections. Based on well-established osteopathic principles, the osteopathic self-treatment (OST) aims to promote optimal respiration, circulation (venous, arterial, and lymphatic), immune function, balance of the autonomic nervous system, reduced stress, and improved homeostasis. This OST provides exercises designed to remove obstacles to the body's own functions and therefore promote improved health. It is warranted for those at risk of infection or those already testing positive. There is particular utility in these approaches for patients that must self-isolate and socially distance such as during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.