What is Osteopathic Medicine? A Complete Guide
Osteopathic medicine is a distinct branch of the healthcare system, rooted in a holistic approach that emphasizes the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Practitioners of osteopathic medicine, known as Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), provide comprehensive care that includes all modern medical treatments while focusing on the musculoskeletal system to support health and healing. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what osteopathic medicine is, its history, key principles, how it compares to allopathic medicine (MDs), and what patients can expect from an osteopathic approach.
The Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine
Osteopathic medicine was founded in the late 19th century by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, who believed that the body could heal itself when its systems were properly aligned and functioning. His philosophy gave rise to a holistic practice of medicine that integrates modern science with an understanding of the body’s structure (musculoskeletal system) and function.
Dr. Still established the first school of osteopathy in 1892, the American School of Osteopathy, which is now known as the A.T. Still University. His pioneering work laid the groundwork for a new way of practicing medicine, which today is one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions in the United States.
Key Principles of Osteopathic Medicine
DOs follow several core principles that differentiate their approach from traditional allopathic medicine (MDs):
- The Body is a Unit: Osteopathic physicians view the body as an interconnected whole, where all systems—musculoskeletal, nervous, circulatory, and more—work together to maintain health.
- Structure and Function are Interrelated: A central tenet of osteopathic medicine is that a person’s structure (body) and function (health) are deeply intertwined. If the body’s structure is not in proper alignment, it can affect overall health and functionality.
- The Body has an Inherent Ability to Heal Itself: Osteopathic medicine emphasizes the body’s ability to self-regulate and heal when provided the right support, care, and environment.
- Patient-Centered Care: Osteopathic physicians prioritize understanding each patient as an individual, taking into account their lifestyle, environment, and emotional well-being when providing care.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
One of the unique aspects of osteopathic medicine is the use of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). This hands-on technique involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. DOs use OMT to help restore balance to the musculoskeletal system, which, in turn, supports the body’s ability to heal.
OMT Techniques Include:
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Gentle manipulation of muscles and soft tissues to relieve pain and improve circulation.
- Myofascial Release: A technique that targets tight areas of muscle or fascia to release tension and improve mobility.
- High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) Thrust: A quick, controlled movement used to improve range of motion in joints.
OMT is used to treat a variety of conditions, such as chronic pain, headaches, respiratory issues, and even digestive problems. Research has shown that OMT can improve patient outcomes and reduce reliance on pain medications.
DO vs. MD: What’s the Difference?
In the United States, both DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) and MDs (Doctors of Medicine) are fully licensed physicians who can prescribe medications, perform surgery, and practice in any specialty. The main differences between the two lie in their training and philosophy of care:
- Training: DOs receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system and OMT, focusing on hands-on diagnosis and treatment.
- Philosophy: While MDs focus on diagnosing and treating diseases, DOs emphasize a whole-person approach, considering how different systems of the body work together.
- Practice: DOs are known for their strong emphasis on preventive care and holistic treatment, taking into account a patient’s lifestyle, environment, and emotional well-being.
Despite these differences, both DOs and MDs often work side by side in hospitals and clinics, and DOs are increasingly found in all areas of medicine, from primary care to surgery and specialty fields like oncology and cardiology.
Osteopathic Medicine and Primary Care
One of the key areas where osteopathic medicine excels is in primary care. In fact, over 50% of DOs practice in primary care fields such as family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. The holistic, patient-centered philosophy of osteopathic medicine aligns well with the goals of primary care, which is to provide comprehensive and continuous care to patients.
DOs in primary care often serve as the first point of contact for patients, helping manage chronic diseases, promoting preventive healthcare, and guiding patients through the complex healthcare system.
Osteopathic Medicine in Specialty Fields
While DOs are often associated with primary care, many osteopathic physicians practice in a wide range of specialties. You’ll find DOs working in:
- Orthopedics
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Pain Management
- Oncology
The holistic training of DOs can be particularly beneficial in specialties like sports medicine, physical rehabilitation, and pain management, where the musculoskeletal system plays a central role in patient care.
Becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
To become a DO, students must complete an undergraduate degree followed by four years of medical school at an accredited osteopathic medical school. During osteopathic medical school, students undergo rigorous training in the same subjects as MD students (anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, etc.), as well as additional training in the musculoskeletal system and OMT.
After medical school, DOs complete internships and residency programs, where they gain hands-on experience in their chosen specialty. Like MDs, they must pass licensing exams and meet continuing education requirements to maintain their certification.
The Future of Osteopathic Medicine
Osteopathic medicine is growing rapidly, with the number of DOs increasing every year. As of 2023, there are over 150,000 DOs and osteopathic medical students in the United States, and this number continues to rise as more people recognize the value of a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, DOs are playing a critical role in promoting preventive care, improving chronic disease management, and addressing opioid dependence through non-pharmacologic approaches like OMT.
Why Choose a DO?
Patients choose DOs for many reasons, including:
- Holistic Care: DOs treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Preventive Approach: They emphasize preventive medicine and patient education.
- Personalized Treatment: DOs take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and preferences.
- OMT: For patients with musculoskeletal issues, OMT can provide significant relief without medication or surgery.
How to Find a DO
Finding a DO is easy. You can use the American Osteopathic Association’s (AOA) Find Your DO tool to search for osteopathic physicians in your area, or check your local hospital directory.
Osteopathic medicine provides a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the whole person. Whether you’re looking for primary care or specialty treatment, a DO can offer comprehensive care that integrates the best of modern medicine with hands-on healing techniques like OMT. As the field continues to grow, osteopathic medicine will remain a vital part of the healthcare system, helping patients achieve better health and well-being.
If you want to learn more about osteopathic medicine or explore educational resources for medical students, visit Remedy OMM for the latest in osteopathic education and training.
