Characteristics, opportunities, and challenges of osteopathy (COCO) in the perceptions of osteopaths in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland: a metasynthesis.

Background: The practice of osteopathy in Europe is not uniformly regulated. Even despite the topographical and cultural proximity, the regulation of the osteopathic profession also differs in the German-speaking countries. In contrast to Germany and Austria, both without any recognized osteopathic profession, Switzerland has already created legal regulations for the practice of osteopathy. The aim of this analysis and the project itself is to gain knowledge about the characteristics, challenges and opportunities of osteopaths in German-speaking countries.

Methods: The COCO project examines osteopaths in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, considering their view on the practice of osteopathy. Within the framework of a metasynthesis, a systematic literature search was conducted first to identify further relevant studies. Subsequently, a qualitative synthesis was followed after having applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria to the literature found.

Results: This study was able to draw on a total of 30 content-analyzed interviews with osteopaths. It was possible to gain deeper insights into the characteristics, challenges and opportunities of osteopaths in German-speaking countries. Challenges were diagnosed, for example, regarding professional identity, as well as in the intraprofessional conflicts and the question of standards in training and research. The chances were described as leading a fulfilling professional life and meeting a great interest in osteopathy among the population.

Conclusions: Regarding the characteristics of osteopathy in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, it can be said that osteopaths have difficulties to define osteopathy. The resources mentioned most often are manual work on the patient, a holistic treatment approach and generous treatment durations. Lecturers and prominent figures can be seen as role models and greatly influence the perspective of osteopaths. The central challenge is the problem of identity among osteopaths. In addition, different training programs and qualifications exist, which also presents the greatest country-specific differences. The satisfaction of osteopaths in their work and the extreme demand for osteopathy in society should be seen as an opportunity for the field.