Dynamic styles of osteopaths based on assessment of the bioelectrical activity of the brain using the method of mathematical analysis of a first-order multivariate structural function

Introduction. The perceptual skills of an osteopath, high tactile sensitivity and a systematic approach suggest that when carrying out osteopathic correction, not only a local effect on the musculoskeletal structures occurs, but the interaction of two biological systems as well.

The aim was to study the differences in the characteristics of the bioelectrical activity of the osteopath′s brain in a state of quiet wakefulness and when working with patients, simulating treatment (working with a ball, a soft toy).

Materials and methods. The study involved 7 osteopaths, 3 men and 4 women with experience from 3 to 20 years. Based on the assessment of the bioelectrical activity of the brain of osteopaths using the method of mathematical analysis of the multivariable structural function of the first order (SF1) of a multichannel EEG, features of the interaction of biopotentials in the process of working with patients and when simulating treatment were identified. For each osteopath, integral parameters of the multichannel EEG were calculated, characterizing its spatial (p_S) and temporal (p_T) ordering in various states (quiet wakefulness, working with patients, imitation of treatment).

Results. In a series of observations, it was found that a number of osteopaths practice a predominantly stable strategy of working with overlapping clouds of overlapping p_S and p_T parameters in various states, which may indicate a resonant interaction with the patient. In a number of cases, a strategy of «following the patient» was observed, with different configurations of clouds of p_S and p_T parameters in a calm state and during treatment of the patient, which may indicate «tuning» to the patient. The strategy of an osteopath with less experience in the profession was distinguished by signs of emotional stress in the bioelectrical activity of the brain and increased spatial ordering of the EEG, regardless of the patient.

Conclusion. Analysis of the overlap of clouds of p_S and p_T parameters at rest and in various stages of work with the patient showed that osteopaths practice two main dynamic styles of work: «Attraction», a stable strategy with an overlay of clouds of p_S and p_T parameters, and «Following», clouds of p_S parameters and p_T have different configurations at rest and during patient treatment. In a number of cases, flexible approaches were observed with a change in the dynamic style of the same doctor when working with different patients.

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