What is an osteopathic doctor?

An osteopathic doctor (DO) is a medical professional who practices osteopathic medicine, a holistic approach to patient care that emphasizes the importance of the body's musculoskeletal system in promoting overall health and well-being. DOs use a hands-on approach to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions, focusing on the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Osteopathic doctors receive comprehensive training in conventional medical practices, similar to medical doctors (MDs), including the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and injuries. However, DOs also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), which involves the use of hands-on techniques to evaluate and treat the body's structural imbalances and dysfunctions.

Here are some key aspects of osteopathic medicine:

1. Holistic Approach: Osteopathic medicine considers the whole person when diagnosing and treating medical conditions. DOs take into account physical, mental, and emotional factors, promoting a comprehensive approach to patient care.

2. Emphasis on the Musculoskeletal System: Osteopathic doctors place particular importance on the role of the musculoskeletal system in overall health. They believe that misalignments or dysfunctions in the spine and other parts of the body can affect the function of other organs and systems, contributing to various health problems.

3. Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM): OMM involves the use of hands-on techniques to manipulate the spine, muscles, and joints to correct misalignments and dysfunctions. By promoting proper alignment and balance in the body, OMM aims to improve circulation, reduce pain, and support the body's natural healing processes.

4. Comprehensive Training: DOs undergo comprehensive medical education and training similar to MDs, including four years of medical school, residency programs, and board exams. They also receive additional training in OMM and a broad range of medical specialties, such as internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery, among others.

5. Collaborative Care: Osteopathic doctors often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for their patients. They emphasize a team-based approach to healthcare, involving specialists from different disciplines as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

6. Osteopathic Schools and Hospitals: Osteopathic medical education and training take place in osteopathic medical schools and teaching hospitals accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). Graduates of osteopathic medical schools receive the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

Osteopathic medicine is recognized and respected within the healthcare field, and DOs are licensed to practice medicine in all 50 states of the United States and many other countries around the world. Patients often seek out osteopathic care for various reasons, including a desire for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare, the emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, and the availability of OMM as a complementary therapy.