The myth of Theseus is interpreted under the point of view of a medical philosopher. The feat of Theseus, son of Aegeas, King of Athens and Aethra, was to clear the road from the villains, on his way from his birthplace Troizina to Athens, in order to meet his father.

The five villains may be interpreted as therapists, each one of whom practices a different “exaggerated” therapeutic method for myosceletal conditions-due to carrying heavy loads over a precipitous journey. Perifites, or Corynitis, with his corine (club), Skiron, Sinis, Procrustis the “procrastinator” and Kerkyon, intimidate and, at times, exterminate travelers. But, if looked upon them therapeutically, their attendance to joint malfunctions could compare favorably with the original Hippocratic methods, the Osteopathic adjusting techniques, or modern surgical operations which, all together, approach the causing factor of debilitation.

While Theseus, is going through the great trial of confronting the menace of their reputation, and attempting their destruction, one could surmise that he is in a way, initiated into their therapeutic processes.

After fulfilling the rest of the feats, Theseus takes charge of the Athenian kingdom, issues reformative laws and is, eventually, recognized as one of the best Athenian kings, founding, according to our pre-Homeric tradition, the first Asclepeions, i.e. the first medical schools.