Aug. 14, 2012:
If you caught any of the events in this summer's 2012 Olympic Games in London, you were probably impressed and inspired by the athletes' achievements and their intense dedication. But you might not have known that osteopathic physicians and osteopaths were there too, providing care to athletes and teams before and during the games. In fact, for the first time, 26 osteopaths were invited to be part of the Central Medical Team in the Olympic Village this year.
Members of the Osteopathic International Alliance (OIA) provide care for Olympic athletes and teams from eight countries, from North and South America to Australia. Altogether, these athletes represent more than 40 summer and winter Olympic sports, including swimming, judo, tennis, skiing, rythmic gymnastics and basketball. Many osteopaths and DOs also serve on Olympic committees, where they assist with logistical planning and oversight.
The OIA represents more than 100,000 osteopathic practicioners in 27 countries on five continents. It works for global osteopathic unity, advocates for high-quality health care and advances the philosopy and practice of osteopathic medicine and osteopathy worldwide. Learn more about the OIA or read the full press release on the osteopathic presence at this year's Olympic Games.