Somatic Dysfunction is defined as which of the following?

• A. a disease of the somatic organs
• B. temporary impairment of movement
• C. impaired or altered function of related components of the somatic system
• D. a disorder affecting the nervous system only

Answer: (C)

Somatic Dysfunction means impaired or altered function of related components of the somatic system. It isn’t a disease of somatic organs, and it isn’t just a temporary movement problem, nor is it limited to the nervous system alone. In osteopathic practice this term covers structural and tissue-level changes in bones, joints, muscles, and fascia along with the neural, vascular, and lymphatic elements connected to them. These dysfunctions show up as altered structure and function, often with signs like restricted motion, tissue texture changes, asymmetry, and tenderness (the TART findings). So the best description is that it’s an impairment or alteration affecting the interconnected somatic tissues and their networks, not a disease or a purely neurological issue.