What type of osteopathic manipulative treatment involves patient participation?

Active techniques in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) involve the patient in the treatment process, requiring their participation during the manipulation. This method emphasizes the patient's engagement in movement, often asking them to actively assist in the technique by voluntarily moving a part of their body.

For example, a common active technique may involve the patient performing a contraction against resistance, which can create reciprocal inhibition and facilitate greater range of motion and relaxation of tight muscles. This approach is beneficial as it enhances the patient's awareness of their body and may contribute to a more holistic healing process through their active involvement in their own care.

In contrast, passive techniques do not require patient participation as they rely on the physician or practitioner to perform the manipulative movements without the patient's active involvement. Reflex techniques are centered around involuntary responses and do not engage the patient actively, while adjunct techniques typically serve as supplemental methods that enhance overall treatment but do not necessarily involve direct patient participation in the treatment process.