What is Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine is a holistic form of medicine that takes into account a person’s overall physical, mental, and emotional health. It is a system of treatment based on the theory that joint, muscle, ligament, organ, and other bodily tissues can be manipulated in order to improve and maintain overall health. Osteopathic medicine seeks to treat the underlying causes and symptoms of illness, rather than simply the symptoms themselves.

Osteopathic practitioners, or doctors of osteopathic medicine (D.O.s), use a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as spinal and joint manipulation, soft tissue manipulation, and physical therapy. D.O.s also employ pharmaceuticals, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

D.O.s are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of acute and chronic diseases and conditions. Most commonly, they diagnose and treat musculoskeletal diseases, low back pain, and sports-related head, neck and spine injuries. Osteopathic medicine however, has also been utilized to treat many different health issues, including asthma, sinusitis, thyroid conditions, infertility, obesity and more.

The Benefits of Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine offers a number of benefits to patients. Firstly, D.O.s are trained to integrate body and mind to whole health, which focuses on finding the root cause of an illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. Secondly, many techniques used in osteopathic medicine are non-invasive, meaning that there is no need for surgery, drugs, or other invasive treatments. Finally, D.O.s will work with patients to create personalized treatment plans that focus on long-term health, rather than simply alleviating symptoms in the short-term.

Osteopathic medicine can be a great alternative or complement to traditional Western medicine, depending on the nature and severity of the illness or injury. Osteopathic doctors are trained to use the most effective and safest treatments to achieve the best results for patients. Osteopathic treatments can help to reduce pain, speed up healing, relieve stress, and improve overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Osteopathic medicine is a holistic form of medicine that focuses on treating the underlying causes of illness and injury, rather than simply the symptoms. It is a system of treatment that uses physical therapy techniques, such as spinal and joint manipulation, soft tissue manipulation, and physical therapy, along with pharmaceuticals, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling to establish and maintain optimal health. Osteopathic medicine offers a variety of benefits, including non-invasive treatments and personalized care, and can be used as an alternative or complementary option for traditional Western medicine.