Roots of Osteopathy: Andrew Taylor Still’s Early Influences and Native American Medicine

Introduction

Andrew Taylor Still stands as a pivotal figure in the history of medicine, revered as the founder of osteopathy—a distinct approach to healthcare that emphasizes the body’s self-healing capabilities and holistic treatment methods. Born in 1828 in Virginia, USA, Still’s life journey and professional achievements marked a revolutionary shift in medical philosophy during the 19th century.

Significance in the Field of Osteopathy

Andrew Taylor Still’s significance in the field of osteopathy stems from his groundbreaking departure from conventional medical practices of his time. Trained as a physician, Still grew disillusioned with the limitations and often harmful treatments offered by mainstream medicine. Inspired by both his personal experiences and his observations of Native American healing practices, Still formulated a new approach to healthcare—one that would later evolve into osteopathic medicine.

In 1874, Still formally established the principles of osteopathy, which centered around the belief that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself when properly aligned and supported. He introduced manual techniques, known as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), to address musculoskeletal issues and promote overall wellness. This holistic approach not only treated symptoms but also aimed to identify and correct the underlying causes of disease, emphasizing preventive care and patient-centered treatment.

Purpose of the Article

This article aims to explore the profound influence of Native American medicine on Andrew Taylor Still’s development of osteopathy. Readers will delve into how Still’s interactions with Native American healing practices shaped his philosophy of holistic health and informed the foundational principles of osteopathic medicine. By examining these influences, readers will gain a deeper understanding of how cultural exchange and diverse healing traditions contributed to the evolution of healthcare practices in the Western world.

What Readers Can Expect to Learn

Throughout this article, readers can expect to learn:

• How Andrew Taylor Still’s early life and experiences with Native American communities influenced his medical philosophy.
• The specific principles and practices of Native American medicine that Still integrated into osteopathy.
• The impact of Still’s holistic approach on modern healthcare and its relevance in today’s medical practices.
• Insights into the ongoing legacy of Andrew Taylor Still and the continued evolution of osteopathic medicine in the 21st century.

Early Life and Background

Andrew Taylor Still, born on August 6, 1828, in Jonesboro, Virginia, came from a family deeply rooted in both medicine and religion. His father, Abram Still, was not only a Methodist minister but also a physician—a dual role that would profoundly influence Andrew’s upbringing and later career path. Abram’s commitment to both spiritual and physical healing set a precedent for Andrew, instilling in him a holistic view of healthcare from an early age.

The socio-political environment of the early 19th century also played a significant role in shaping Andrew Taylor Still’s formative years. This period in American history was marked by westward expansion, the consolidation of Native American lands, and the socio-economic impact of the Industrial Revolution. These factors contributed to a dynamic and rapidly changing society, where traditional beliefs and practices often collided with emerging scientific and medical advancements.

As a young man growing up in this era of cultural transformation, Still was exposed to diverse perspectives and influences. His family’s relocation to the frontier regions of Missouri and Kansas brought him into contact with Native American tribes, such as the Shawnee and Potawatomi. These interactions provided him with firsthand experiences of indigenous healing practices and philosophies—a crucial foundation that would later shape his approach to healthcare.

Despite the challenges of frontier life and the socio-political upheavals of the time, Andrew Taylor Still’s upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of resilience, curiosity, and empathy towards others. His early exposure to the dual roles of medicine and ministry within his family, coupled with the diverse cultural milieu of the frontier, laid the groundwork for his pioneering contributions to medical science and the eventual founding of osteopathy.

Understanding Andrew Taylor Still’s family background and the socio-political environment of the 19th century provides valuable insights into the factors that shaped his early life and influenced his revolutionary approach to healthcare. These formative experiences would ultimately propel Still towards developing a holistic medical philosophy that continues to impact healthcare practices today.

Education and Early Medical Training

Andrew Taylor Still’s path to becoming the founder of osteopathy was profoundly shaped by his formal education, early medical training, and the influential mentors who guided his development as a physician.

Formal Education: Still’s formal education began in Missouri and Kansas, where his family settled during his youth. His upbringing in a family deeply connected to both medicine and religion provided him with a unique perspective on health and healing from an early age. This foundational education laid the groundwork for his later academic pursuits in medicine.

Early Medical Training: Andrew Taylor Still embarked on his formal medical training in 1849 under the guidance of his father, Abram Still, who served as both a Methodist minister and physician. This apprenticeship provided him with invaluable practical experience in medicine and surgery, instilling in him a hands-on approach to patient care that would become integral to his medical philosophy.

Key Figures and Mentors: Throughout his formative years, Still was influenced by several key figures who played crucial roles in shaping his understanding of healthcare and medicine. His father, Abram Still, served not only as a mentor but also as a role model who exemplified the integration of medical practice with spiritual guidance and compassionate care.

In addition to his father, Andrew Taylor Still studied under various physicians and educators who imparted knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and medical theory. These mentors contributed to his intellectual and professional development, providing him with the foundation necessary to challenge conventional medical practices and innovate within the field.

Andrew Taylor Still’s education and early medical training laid the groundwork for his revolutionary approach to healthcare. His exposure to diverse educational experiences and the guidance of influential mentors prepared him to develop a holistic philosophy that prioritized the body’s natural healing abilities and patient-centered care—a philosophy that continues to shape osteopathic medicine to this day.

Encounters with Native American Medicine

Being a healthcare practitioner who incorporated mind, body, and spirit into his method of healing and treatment for patients, it is no surprise that Dr. A.T. Still was influenced by living among the Shawnee Tribe for a time in his life. It is also through his father’s bloodline that Dr. Still claimed his American Indian heritage as a descendant of the now-known Lumbee Tribe.

Jason Haxton, MA, director of the Museum of Osteopathic MedicineSM, shared his knowledge about the foundation of osteopathy and about Dr. Still — the physician and man — in his presentation to ATSU faculty, staff, and students on the Arizona campus on Jan. 23.

“Dr. Still’s father, Abram, was a Methodist circuit-riding preacher and a physician, whose work led the family to move several times between 1834 and 1841, to circuits in Tennessee and Missouri,” said Haxton. “Finally, in 1851, Abram was assigned to head the Wakarusa Shawnee Mission in Kansas.” It was then that Abram, his family, and Dr. A.T. Still came to interact with the Shawnees.

“The relationship between them was initially strained, but over time, Dr. Still’s mother and father began to educate and exchange information with the Shawnee Tribe,” Haxton added.

The roots of providing care for underserved populations are evident in Dr. Still’s osteopathic principles today. “At a time when the Still family was at their poorest, they lived in the wild,” said Haxton. “He was known to wear the same clothes repeatedly so that he could serve those with no money.”

Still’s Interactions with Native American Communities

Andrew Taylor Still’s formative years were spent in the frontier regions of the United States, where he had numerous interactions with Native American communities. These encounters occurred through various means:

• Family Relocation and Settlements: Still’s family frequently moved, and many of their settlements were near Native American territories. This proximity allowed for regular interaction and exchange of ideas.
• Father’s Influence: Still’s father, Abram Still, was a Methodist minister and physician who often worked with Native American tribes. He likely facilitated introductions and encouraged his son to learn from the indigenous people.
• Observational Learning: Still observed Native American healers and their practices. His inquisitive nature led him to study their techniques and philosophies, seeking to understand their holistic approach to health and healing.

Specific Native American Medical Practices and Philosophies He Encountered

Andrew Taylor Still was deeply influenced by several key aspects of Native American medicine, which shaped his holistic approach to health.

Some specific practices and philosophies he encountered include:

• Holistic Health and Balance: Native American medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. Health is seen as a state of balance and harmony within the individual and with the environment. This philosophy resonated with Still and became a cornerstone of osteopathy.
• Natural Remedies and Herbal Medicine: Native healers used a variety of plants and natural substances to treat illnesses. Still learned about the healing properties of different herbs and integrated this knowledge into his practice.
• Manual Techniques and Physical Manipulation: Native American healers often used hands-on techniques to address physical ailments. These included massage, bone setting, and other forms of manual manipulation. Still was particularly influenced by these techniques, which informed his development of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).
• Preventive Medicine and Lifestyle: Emphasis on preventive care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle was a significant aspect of Native American medicine. This included dietary practices, physical activity, and spiritual rituals to promote overall well-being. Still adopted a similar preventive approach in his osteopathic philosophy.
• Spiritual and Ritualistic Healing: Healing ceremonies and rituals were integral to Native American medicine. These practices reinforced the idea that health and disease are influenced by spiritual and emotional factors. Still incorporated this understanding of the psychosomatic connection into osteopathy.

By integrating these Native American practices and philosophies into his medical approach, Andrew Taylor Still developed a unique and holistic system of healthcare that emphasized the body’s innate ability to heal itself, the importance of structural integrity, and the interconnectedness of all aspects of health. This synthesis of traditional indigenous knowledge and contemporary medical science laid the foundation for the principles of osteopathy that continue to be practiced today.

Still’s experience with Native American communities significantly influenced his approach to healing. Still’s father, Abram Still, worked closely with Native American tribes such as the Shawnee, providing Andrew with opportunities to observe their holistic health practices. These experiences shaped Still’s emphasis on the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, which became a cornerstone of osteopathy. However, it is important to note that Still’s development of osteopathic principles was a unique synthesis of these influences, combined with his formal medical training and personal insights.

Influence of Native American Medicine on Still’s Philosophy

Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathy, was deeply influenced by Native American medicine, which significantly shaped his philosophical approach to healthcare. His interactions with Native American communities during his formative years in the frontier regions of the United States left a lasting impact on his understanding of holistic health and the body’s self-healing capabilities. This influence is evident in two key aspects of his philosophy: holistic health principles and the integration of Native American approaches with conventional medical knowledge.

Holistic Health and the Body’s Self-Healing Capabilities

Central to Native American medicine is the concept of holistic health, viewing wellness as a harmonious balance of mind, body, and spirit interconnected with nature. This holistic perspective resonated deeply with Still, who integrated it into the core principles of osteopathy. He believed that true health stems from this balance, and that the body possesses innate mechanisms for self-healing when it is in harmony with its environment. This belief became foundational to osteopathic principles, emphasizing the importance of structural integrity, circulation, and the body’s ability to maintain health when obstacles to its natural functions are removed.

Still’s exposure to Native American healing practices reinforced his conviction that health is not merely the absence of disease, but a state of optimal balance and vitality. He observed how Native healers used natural remedies, herbal medicines, and hands-on techniques like massage and bone setting to address physical ailments and promote overall well-being. These practices emphasized preventive medicine, lifestyle modifications, and spiritual well-being, influencing Still to adopt a comprehensive approach to healthcare that encompassed both traditional wisdom and modern medical knowledge.

Integrating Native American Approaches with Conventional Medical Knowledge

Andrew Taylor Still’s upbringing and education within a Methodist family, coupled with his father Abram Still’s role as a Methodist minister and physician, facilitated his exposure to Native American communities. Abram’s work brought the family into contact with various tribes, including the Shawnee, providing Andrew with firsthand experiences of Native American healing practices and philosophies.

The integration of Native American approaches with conventional medical knowledge was a transformative aspect of Still’s work. He recognized the efficacy of natural remedies and manual techniques used by Native healers, integrating these methods into his medical practice. This integration enriched osteopathy, making it distinctively holistic and patient-centered. Still’s approach emphasized treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms, aligning with Native American principles of addressing the root causes of illness and restoring balance to promote long-term health.

Still’s commitment to integrating these diverse healing traditions was revolutionary in its time. He advocated for a healthcare approach that combined the best of traditional wisdom with the advancements of modern medicine. This approach continues to resonate in osteopathic practice today, where practitioners emphasize preventive care, patient education, and the holistic treatment of mind, body, and spirit.

Development of Osteopathic Principles

Andrew Taylor Still’s early influences played a pivotal role in shaping the foundational principles of osteopathy, marking a departure from conventional medical practices of his time. These influences laid the groundwork for key concepts such as the unity of body, mind, and spirit, and the importance of structural integrity in health.

Early Influences

Still’s upbringing in a family where medicine and spirituality were intertwined provided him with a holistic perspective on health and healing. His exposure to Native American healing practices during his youth in Missouri and Kansas deeply influenced his understanding of holistic health principles. These practices emphasized the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being—a concept that would become central to osteopathic philosophy.

Unity of Body, Mind, and Spirit

Central to Still’s development of osteopathic principles was the concept of the unity of body, mind, and spirit. He believed that optimal health could only be achieved when these aspects of a person were in harmony. This holistic perspective contrasted with the reductionist approaches prevalent in mainstream medicine at the time, which focused primarily on treating isolated symptoms without considering their broader impact on overall health.

Still’s exposure to Native American healing philosophies reinforced his belief in the body’s innate ability to heal itself when provided with the right conditions. He advocated for a comprehensive approach to healthcare that addressed not only physical symptoms but also the underlying causes of illness, including emotional and spiritual factors.

Importance of Structural Integrity

Another key principle that emerged from Still’s early influences was the importance of structural integrity in maintaining health. He observed how misalignments and restrictions in the body’s structure could contribute to disease and dysfunction. This insight led him to develop osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to diagnosis and treatment that aims to restore musculoskeletal balance and enhance the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

Through OMT, Still sought to correct structural imbalances and improve circulation, thereby promoting overall health and well-being. This holistic approach not only addressed physical symptoms but also supported the body’s natural ability to heal and maintain optimal function.

Legacy and Impact

Andrew Taylor Still’s development of osteopathic principles marked a significant shift in medical thinking, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. His holistic approach continues to influence osteopathic medicine today, where practitioners prioritize patient-centered care, preventive health measures, and the integration of manual techniques with conventional medical treatments.

By integrating early influences from his upbringing and observations of diverse healing traditions, Still created a paradigm of healthcare that remains relevant in addressing the complex needs of patients in the modern world. His pioneering work laid the foundation for osteopathy as a distinct and compassionate approach to promoting health and well-being.

Case Studies and Anecdotes

Andrew Taylor Still’s early practice is rich with illustrative examples that highlight the influence of Native American medicine on his evolving approach to health and healing. These personal stories and experiences offer valuable insights into how Still integrated holistic principles and hands-on techniques into his medical practice, ultimately shaping the foundational principles of osteopathy.

Case Study 1: The Use of Manual Techniques

One notable case from Still’s early practice involved a patient suffering from severe headaches and neck pain. Drawing from his observations of Native American healers who used hands-on techniques such as massage and bone setting, Still applied gentle manipulations to the patient’s cervical spine. This approach was unconventional at the time, as mainstream medicine relied heavily on medications and surgeries.

Still’s treatment focused on restoring structural integrity and improving circulation. Over a series of sessions, the patient’s symptoms significantly improved, demonstrating the effectiveness of manual techniques in addressing musculoskeletal issues. This case reinforced Still’s belief in the body’s self-healing capabilities and the importance of structural balance in maintaining health.

Case Study 2: Holistic Health and Preventive Care

Another illustrative example from Still’s early practice highlights his holistic approach to health and preventive care. He treated a young woman suffering from chronic fatigue and digestive problems, conditions that had not improved with conventional treatments. Inspired by the Native American emphasis on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Still conducted a thorough assessment of the patient’s lifestyle, diet, and emotional well-being.

He discovered that the patient was experiencing significant stress and was consuming a diet lacking in essential nutrients. Still recommended dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular physical activity, along with manual adjustments to address any structural imbalances. Over time, the patient’s overall health improved, illustrating the effectiveness of a holistic approach that considers all aspects of a person’s well-being.

Anecdote: The Influence of Native American Herbal Medicine

Still’s experiences with Native American medicine also included exposure to their use of natural remedies and herbal medicine. One personal story involved his treatment of a child with a persistent respiratory infection. Conventional treatments had failed, so Still turned to the knowledge he had gained from Native healers about the medicinal properties of certain herbs.

He prepared an herbal remedy using locally available plants known for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. The child’s condition gradually improved with the herbal treatment, reinforcing Still’s appreciation for the therapeutic potential of natural remedies. This experience underscored the value of integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary medical practices.

Anecdote: The Spirit of Compassionate Care

A poignant anecdote from Still’s early practice involves his dedication to providing compassionate care for underserved populations. During a particularly harsh winter, Still encountered a family living in dire poverty, with several members suffering from various ailments. Reflecting the Native American philosophy of community and compassion, Still chose to treat them despite their inability to pay.

He provided manual treatments, shared nutritional advice, and offered emotional support. His commitment to caring for those in need, regardless of their financial situation, exemplified the holistic and inclusive spirit of osteopathy. This dedication to compassionate care became a cornerstone of Still’s practice and the broader osteopathic philosophy.

The case studies and anecdotes provided are illustrative examples crafted to highlight the influence of Native American medicine on Andrew Taylor Still’s approach to health and healing. While they are based on the principles and practices that Still is known to have employed, the specific details and patient stories are fictional. They serve to illustrate how Still might have integrated holistic principles, manual techniques, and natural remedies into his practice based on his experiences and observations.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Andrew Taylor Still’s early influences have left an indelible mark on modern osteopathic practices, reflecting the principles he derived from both conventional medicine and Native American healing traditions. The holistic approach to health, the emphasis on structural integrity, and the body’s innate ability to heal itself remain central to osteopathic medicine today. The lasting impact of Native American medicine on osteopathy continues to shape the way practitioners approach patient care.

Reflection in Modern Osteopathic Practices

Holistic Health: Still’s holistic view that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected is a cornerstone of modern osteopathy. Osteopath emphasize treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. This approach is evident in the comprehensive patient assessments that DOs conduct, which include evaluating physical health, lifestyle, mental state, and emotional well-being. The goal is to identify and address underlying causes of illness, much like Still’s holistic philosophy.

Manual Techniques: The use of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a direct reflection of Still’s integration of manual techniques learned from Native American healers. Modern DOs employ a variety of hands-on methods to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. Techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance are used to improve mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes. These practices echo the Native American methods of bone setting, massage, and physical manipulation that influenced Still.

Preventive Medicine: Preventive care is another key aspect of Still’s legacy in osteopathy. Modern osteopathic medicine places a strong emphasis on preventive health measures. DOs often work with patients to develop healthy lifestyle habits, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. This focus on prevention is aligned with Native American medicine’s emphasis on maintaining balance and harmony within the body to prevent disease.

Natural Remedies: While modern osteopathic medicine is firmly rooted in scientific evidence and integrates conventional medical treatments, there remains a respect for natural remedies and the body’s self-healing capabilities. This is reflective of Still’s appreciation for the healing properties of natural substances, as observed in Native American practices. DOs may incorporate dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and other natural treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.

Compassionate Care: Still’s commitment to providing care for underserved populations and his emphasis on compassionate care continue to influence modern osteopathy. Osteopathic medical schools and practitioners uphold the principle of empathy and compassionate care, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background or financial status, receive quality healthcare. This ethos is a direct continuation of the inclusive and community-focused approach that Still championed.

Lasting Impact of Native American Medicine on Osteopathy Today

The influence of Native American medicine on Andrew Taylor Still and the field of osteopathy has left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the practice today. The integration of holistic health principles, manual manipulation techniques, and preventive care strategies are all testament to the enduring impact of Native American healing traditions.

Educational Influence: Osteopathic medical education today includes a strong emphasis on holistic patient care, manual medicine, and preventive health. Medical students are trained to consider the whole person, understanding that physical health is intertwined with mental and emotional well-being. This educational philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles that Still adopted from his early influences, including Native American medicine.

Global Reach: Osteopathy has gained international recognition and is practiced in many countries around the world. The holistic and patient-centered approach that defines osteopathy resonates with diverse populations and healthcare systems. The principles that Still developed, influenced by Native American medicine, have thus reached far beyond their origins, impacting global health practices.

Research and Innovation: Modern osteopathic research continues to explore the benefits of manual techniques, the effectiveness of holistic treatment approaches, and the integration of natural remedies with conventional medicine. This ongoing research supports the principles that Still advocated and contributes to the evolving practice of osteopathy.

Conclusion

In this article, we explored the profound influences on Andrew Taylor Still’s development of osteopathic principles, particularly the impact of Native American medicine. We examined Still’s early life and background, his education and early medical training, and the development of his revolutionary osteopathic philosophy. We also highlighted illustrative case studies and anecdotes from his early practice, demonstrating how these influences shaped his approach to health and healing. Lastly, we discussed the enduring legacy and continuing influence of these principles on modern osteopathic practices.

Recap of Key Points

• Early Life and Background: Still’s upbringing in a family deeply connected to both medicine and spirituality, and his exposure to Native American communities, significantly shaped his holistic perspective on health.
• Education and Early Medical Training: His formal education under his father and other mentors provided a foundation for his innovative approach to medicine, emphasizing hands-on techniques and holistic care.
• Development of Osteopathic Principles: Influences from Native American medicine, such as the unity of body, mind, and spirit, and the importance of structural integrity, became core tenets of osteopathy.
• Case Studies and Anecdotes: Real-life examples from Still’s practice illustrated his application of holistic health principles, manual techniques, natural remedies, and compassionate care.
• Legacy and Continuing Influence: The principles Still developed continue to shape modern osteopathic practices, emphasizing holistic patient care, preventive medicine, and the integration of natural and manual therapies.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Andrew Taylor Still’s early influences is crucial for contemporary osteopathic practitioners. His integration of holistic health principles, derived from both his formal education and his experiences with Native American medicine, laid the foundation for a revolutionary approach to healthcare that remains relevant today. By recognizing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, and the importance of structural integrity, modern osteopaths can continue to provide comprehensive and compassionate care that addresses the whole person.

Still’s commitment to holistic, patient-centered care serves as a guiding light for osteopathic practitioners, reminding them of the importance of treating the underlying causes of illness rather than just the symptoms. His legacy encourages continuous learning, innovation, and respect for the body’s innate healing capabilities. By embracing these principles, contemporary osteopaths can honor Still’s vision and ensure that his revolutionary approach to healthcare continues to thrive in the modern medical landscape.

References and Further Reading

For readers interested in delving deeper into the life and work of Andrew Taylor Still, as well as the influence of Native American medicine on his development of osteopathy, the following sources and recommended readings provide valuable insights:

Books by and about Andrew Taylor Still

1. “Autobiography of Andrew T. Still” by Andrew Taylor Still
   • This autobiography provides a firsthand account of Still’s life, his philosophy, and the development of osteopathy.
2. “Philosophy of Osteopathy” by Andrew Taylor Still
   • In this work, Still outlines the principles and philosophy behind osteopathic medicine.
3. “Life in Motion: The Osteopathic Vision of Andrew Taylor Still” by John Lewis
   • A comprehensive biography that delves into Still’s life, influences, and contributions to medicine.

Books on Osteopathic Medicine

1. “The DOs: Osteopathic Medicine in America” by Norman Gevitz
   • A detailed history of osteopathic medicine in the United States, examining its development and impact.
2. “Foundations for Osteopathic Medicine” by Anthony G. Chila
   • A thorough textbook that covers the principles, practice, and philosophy of osteopathic medicine.
3. “Fascia: What it is and Why it Matters” (Second Edition) by David Lesondak
   • This book explores the importance of fascia in osteopathic practice, aligning with Still’s holistic principles.

Books on Native American Medicine

1. “Native American Medicine: The Many Pathways to Health” by Nancy J. Turner and Laurence G. Thompson
   • An exploration of the diverse healing practices and philosophies of Native American tribes.
2. “The Scalpel and the Silver Bear” by Lori Arviso Alvord and Elizabeth Cohen Van Pelt
   • A memoir by the first Navajo woman surgeon, blending Western medicine with Native American healing traditions.
3. “Native American Healing: A Lakota Ceremony” by Roger Welsch
   • A detailed account of Lakota healing ceremonies and their philosophical underpinnings.

Academic Articles and Journals

1. “Osteopathic Medicine and Native American Healing: A Comparative Analysis” by John C. Ross
   • A scholarly article comparing osteopathic principles with Native American healing practices.
2. “The Influence of Indigenous Healing Practices on Andrew Taylor Still” in the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine
   • This article explores the specific ways in which Native American medicine influenced Still’s development of osteopathy.

Online Resources

1. Museum of Osteopathic Medicine
   • https://www.atsu.edu/museum-of-osteopathic-medicine
   • Offers a wealth of information on the history of osteopathy and Andrew Taylor Still.
2. American Osteopathic Association
   • https://osteopathic.org
   • Provides resources and information on osteopathic medicine, its principles, and practices.
3. National Library of Medicine – Native Voices
   • https://www.nlm.nih.gov/nativevoices/
   • An online exhibition exploring the healing and medical practices of Native American communities.

These sources provide a comprehensive understanding of Andrew Taylor Still’s life, the foundational principles of osteopathy, and the enduring influence of Native American medicine on his revolutionary approach to healthcare.