In Morocco, osteopathy is not recognized as a medical practice. It is also not included in the regulatory framework for healthcare professions and related training. However, the development of modern therapeutic practices highlights its importance in the comprehensive care of patients, whether elderly or very young. DR ‹ › As interest in non-drug therapies continues to rise, the therapeutic potential of osteopathy is becoming a focal point in professional discussions. In Morocco, however, this discipline lacks recognition as a medical practice and is not covered by social security. Typically, it is practiced by physicians, orthopedic specialists, or other trained professionals such as physiotherapists. The current avenues for pursuing this field include continuing education or dual training through partnerships. «Osteopathy in Morocco exists in a legal gray area, demanding heightened vigilance from professionals, along with a strong sense of moral and ethical responsibility. We must prioritize patient welfare and our capacity to provide care within our areas of expertise», says Hamza Lazraq, a physiotherapist and osteopath, speaking to Yabiladi. After obtaining his physiotherapy degree in Morocco in 2014, Lazraq pursued six years of study at the School of Osteopathy in Paris (EOP), gaining experience in hospitals and clinics across France. Upon returning to Morocco, he was eager to continue his practice to help elevate holistic care quality, yet faced challenges due to the legal void. A Discrepancy with Foreign Qualifications This gap means that «even if foreign qualifications are recognized elsewhere, they might not receive equivalence in Morocco, especially as the profession isn't integrated into traditional therapeutic care systems», Lazraq explains. «This is why osteopathy is often practiced by trauma specialists or physiotherapists. Its education varies globally: in the United States, for example, it involves medical studies culminating in a medical degree, allowing practitioners to prescribe medication and perform surgeries as doctors of osteopathy.» Hamza Lazraq «In Europe and other regions, osteopathy has evolved as a specialized manual health profession, accessible to health professionals like physiotherapists. In countries like the UK, Switzerland, or France, students can enter this training directly after their baccalaureate», Lazraq adds. He suggests that international models could serve as inspiration for developing this field in Morocco, noting that «an increasing number of patients and young students are showing interest in it». Enhancing Care Quality Through Practice Lazraq explains that osteopathy «can complement other therapies, enhancing treatment effectiveness for musculoskeletal issues, stress-related problems, and aiding in injury prevention and recovery for athletes». Hamza LazraqHamza Lazraq «It can also benefit infants, pregnant women, and the elderly by optimizing mobility, assisting body adaptations during pregnancy, and supporting functional, digestive, and sleep disorders», he notes. In holistic practices globally, Lazraq highlights that osteopathy is also used «to support patients undergoing oncological treatments, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, showing significant improvements in recovery from post-treatment fatigue and symptoms». «Scientific data supports the benefits of manual therapy in these areas, while acknowledging it is not a cure-all», emphasizes Lazraq, advocating for public awareness of this therapeutic approach in Morocco and clarifying its distinctions from other health professions to foster a constructive debate on practice regulation and patient safety. «In many countries, the profession has been structured gradually through academic training, regulation, and professional organization», Lazraq points out, distinguishing between «physiotherapy as rehabilitation and recovery» and «osteopathy, a comprehensive manual approach». A Global Debate on Regulating CAM Lazraq stresses the need for practitioners to exercise caution when using osteopathy. «It is a first-line profession. Patients can consult us directly, without a referral. Therefore, we must recognize the limits of our practice and refer to a doctor when necessary. I've encountered cases requiring treatment beyond my scope, but I've also treated many who were highly interested in the discipline», he shares. He notes that «globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has implemented a strategy from 2014-2023, extended to 2025-2034, to enhance patient safety, promote scientific research, and regulate practitioner training with appropriate instruments for complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), including osteopathy». «This issue is under international review. The goal isn't to replace conventional medicine, but to regulate these practices as they become more popular. Osteopathy complements rather than substitutes.» Hamza Lazraq He underscores the importance of «being informed and choosing trained practitioners» for practices conducted «within a comprehensive health approach focused on collaboration and coordinated care pathways, through a multidisciplinary approach».
