What defines an active technique in osteopathic practice?

An active technique in osteopathic practice is characterized by the patient's involvement in the movement or activity under the guidance of the physician. This approach empowers the patient to actively participate in their own treatment, allowing them to engage their muscles and promote neuromuscular response and coordination. It is based on the principle that active participation can enhance the effectiveness of treatment by helping to restore function, increase range of motion, and facilitate self-healing.

In this context, the active technique typically involves the physician instructing the patient to perform specific movements or exercises that target particular areas of dysfunction. By doing so, the technique aims to improve the patient's overall musculoskeletal function while fostering a sense of agency in their healing process. This interaction is vital for developing the patient's awareness of their body mechanics and enhancing their recovery.

The other options focus either on the physician performing actions without patient involvement or on the techniques being entirely passive. These do not align with the definition of active techniques, which necessitate active participation from the patient as a crucial component of the treatment.