What is a Bonesetter? Discover This Ancient Practice

As we delve deeper into the vast world of medicine and healing practices, we find ourselves encountering terms that are unfamiliar to our modern lexicon. One such term is the ‘Bonesetter’ or as it’s known in French, a ‘rebouteux’. This archaic term of old brings with it a treasure trove of history and ancient techniques. Often misunderstood and overshadowed by modern medical practices, let this article serve as an enlightening guide into the world of bonesetters.

Definition and History of Bonesetters

The Roots of Bonesetting

The term ‘rebouteux’ originates from the Middle Ages. It was a term coined for healers who claimed to cure ailments by putting ‘end to end’ – hence the name bonesetter – broken bones and dislocated joints. Depending on regions and times they were also referred to as adoubeurs, renoueurs, remettoux, rhabilleurs etc.

Evolving Practices

In today’s terminology, bonesetting is often referred to as ‘reboutology’ or ‘reboutotherapy’, where practitioners employ mechanical maneuvers such as manipulations or massages. The practice has survived through centuries and remains prevalent even now.

Having unearthed some history behind this age-old profession, let’s turn our attention towards understanding their techniques better.

Techniques and Practices of this Ancestral Medicine

The Core Techniques

Bonesetters use rudimentary yet effective mechanical techniques aiming to restore body posture, reoxygenate tissues, and alleviate pain. These practices known as “Tournemains” have been passed down through generations.

The Areas of Expertise

It should be noted that bonesetters mainly treat bone or joint lesions, as well as rheumatic, neuralgic or muscular pain. Their techniques have endured the test of time due to their effectiveness in these specific areas.

Now that we understand the techniques and practices of bonesetting, let’s delve into how they stack up against modern science.

Bonesetters Versus Modern Science

The Lack of Formal Training

A major point of contention between the practice of bonesetting and modern medicine is the lack of formal training or certification for bonesetters. Unlike modern medical practitioners, they do not possess any degrees or specific qualifications.

Regulations and Limitations

Since 1949, the Groupement National pour l’Organisation des Médecines Alternatives (GNOMA) has been a collective for various therapists, including bonesetters. They do not make diagnoses but focus on treating physical ailments as per their charter.

With that said, it raises an important question: where does a bonesetter’s skill originate from ?

Inborn Talent or Acquired Skill: where Do Bonesetters’ Abilities Come From ?

Ancient Practices Surviving Through Time

The craft of bonesetting is primarily an age-old practice passed down through families. As such, it can be seen more as an inherited skill rather than one acquired through formal education.

Having established this, we can now compare and contrast bonesetting with other similar practices such as physiotherapy and osteopathy.

Bonesetters, physiotherapists, and Osteopaths: understanding the Differences

Different Approaches to Healing

While all three disciplines aim at alleviating physical pain, their methods vary greatly. Physiotherapy is a degree-based healthcare profession, osteopathy is an alternative medicine emphasizing physical manipulation of muscle tissue and bones, while bonesetting is an ancestral practice with techniques passed down through generations.

Lastly, let’s explore some tips on finding a reliable bonesetter in today’s world.

Finding a Reliable Bonesetter: tips and Advice

Reliability in the Modern World

Bonesetters were once prevalent in rural areas providing relief for various ailments. Today they continue to serve those who seek their services but finding a reliable one can be challenging due to the lack of formal certification or regulation.

As this exploration comes to an end, one must remember that the practice of bonesetting stands as testament to time-tested healing practices. While it may not possess the structure and validation of modern medical practices, its very existence challenges us to keep our minds open to diverse forms of healing from around the world.