The Practice of Osteopathy

In this book, McConnell attempts to merge the ideals of Still and Osler. At the time of its writing, osteopaths were divided as to where medical philosophy fit in with osteopathic philosophy. McConnell serves to bridge that gap through this work. The first edition came out in 1890, and in collaboration with Dr. Trall, the third edition of this book was published in 1906. McConnell’s target audience included students and medical professionals. He discusses Osteopathic Etiology and Pathology, Diagnosis and Prognosis, and the treatment techniques employed at the time. Within the section on treatment, he addresses misapplied treatment, over treatment, and proper length of treatment. He goes on to discuss specific ailments beginning with postural and spinal afflictions and discussing mental ailments along with sexually transmitted diseases. The second section of his book is devoted to infectious disease, and diseases involving the various body systems. With each disease described he provides the probable osteopathic finding and treatment plan.