An inquiry into Kjølstad’s self-straightening orthopedics in 19th century Norway – One historical root of physiotherapy

Abstract

Enhancing and facilitating change or optimization of body awareness and movement behaviors have been sustained throughout history as central objectives in physiotherapy. Focus will be on the thoughts and practice of orthopedist Gunder Nielsen Kjølstad (1794-1860). He is, in a Norwegian context, one of the forefathers of physiotherapy. Kjølstad was unique for his time in the sense that he did not limit himself to medicine, but drew on vast array of disciplines, among them philosophy, geometry, physics, and dance. Fundamental to his treatment method was a pedagogy that rested on the active participation of the patient; an approach that stood in stark contrast to the established clinical practices. Through this approach, he developed a treatment for 'crooked backs' which constituted a historic break with the common treatment regimens of the nineteenth century.