Likewise the term “osteopathic inhibition” has not always been
scientifically employed. Mechanical inhibition is probably used less
frequently than stimulation but still it is of more importance.
Probably the true interpretation of considerable of so-termed
stimulatory and inhibitory efforts, is simply one of normalization of
tissues, physiologic equilibrium resulting from such changes.
Clinically, to relax contracted muscles by inhibition, to relieve
neuralgia by impinging nerve courses, to relax the cardiac orifice
of the stomach by pressure at the ninth or tenth dorsal vertebra on
the left side, etc., are excellent examples of the therapeutic value
of inhibition. Experimentally Pearce and Burns produced the opposite
results to that of stimulation. Inhibition in the middle and lower
dorsal region caused relaxation of the muscles of both the stomach and
intestines, decreased peristalsis, and caused dilatation of the blood
vessels.
The employment of stimulation and inhibition rounds out to a certain
extent our therapeutics, that is, makes it more practical and specific.
We should not, however, over-rate the relative value of stimulatory and
inhibitory treatment as compared with the readjustive treatment. Not
but what the former is of considerable practical importance, but the
point to be emphasized is that it gives a scientific demonstration of
how pathological effects result, if long continued, from the various
osteopathic lesions. In a word, it shows the physiological process
from cause to effect, or rather a step in the beginning pathological
(perverted physiological) in many disturbances.
Therapeutically, all will agree with Cherry[35] that “stimulation
and inhibition should be employed in all forms of acute disease as
palliative measures until such time as the primary lesion may be
removed.”
As a preparation for adjustment of any bony lesion there is no
question but that simple inhibition for a brief time in the area will
bring about relaxation of soft tissues in a much more satisfactory
manner than the usual massage like method. McPherson, Montreal, has
developed a technique of sacral pressure which he uses exclusively in
his practice. Without going into the merits of his theory there is no
doubt that inhibition at the second and third sacral will bring about
relaxation of the muscles of the lower trunk in a most gratifying
manner. Another thing, if there is difficulty in introducing the finger
in making either a vaginal or rectal examination, a minute’s pressure
at these points will, in most cases, cause the sphincter to relax so as
to cause no discomfort to the patient. This pressure will, also, have a
great effect on the hypogastric plexus and the pelvic organs.