What type of doctor has DO after his name?
A doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who has completed medical school and a residency program accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). DOs have the same training as MDs, and they are licensed to practice medicine and perform surgery in all 50 states.
The main difference between DOs and MDs is that DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). OMT is a hands-on technique that uses gentle pressure to the spine and other parts of the body to promote healing and relieve pain. DOs believe that the body is a self-healing organism, and they use OMT to help the body heal itself.
Some of the conditions that DOs can treat with OMT include:
* Back pain
* Neck pain
* Headaches
* TMJ disorders
* Fibromyalgia
* Asthma
* Allergies
* Digestive problems
* Menstrual problems
* Stress
DOs can also provide preventive care, such as physicals, immunizations, and health screenings. They can also treat acute illnesses and injuries, and they can refer patients to specialists when necessary.
If you are looking for a primary care physician, you may want to consider seeing a DO. DOs are highly trained and skilled physicians who offer a unique approach to patient care.