Osteopathic Medicine is a distinct branch of medical practice that emphasizes the interrelationship between the body's structure, particularly the musculoskeletal system, and its functioning. It is based on the principle that the body is a unit, "the body works as a whole," and that the structure and function of the body are interrelated. Osteopathic physicians, or DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine), are fully licensed physicians who complete four years of medical school and often an additional three to seven years of specialty training. They are trained to use a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, including osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions.

**Step 1: Understanding Osteopathic Medicine**

Osteopathic Medicine was founded in the United States in 1874 by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, who was dissatisfied with the medical practices of his time. He believed that much of the sickness could be traced to problems in the body's structure, particularly the musculoskeletal system, and he developed a philosophy and set of practices to address these issues.

Philosophy and Principles

The philosophy of osteopathic medicine is rooted in several key principles:


1. The Body is a Unit: The body's systems are interconnected, and the way it functions is a reflection of the unity of its parts.

2. The Body has Innate Healing Ability: The body has the inherent capacity to defend, repair, and maintain itself.

3. Structure and Function are Interrelated: The musculoskeletal system greatly influences the functioning of other body systems.

4. Treatment is Patient-Centered: The physician treats the person, not just the disease, considering all factors that affect health.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Osteopathic physicians use all the tools available to modern medicine, including prescription drugs, surgery, and the latest medical technology. However, they also have a unique set of skills that distinguishes them from their allopathic (MD) counterparts:

- Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM): This is a group of specialized techniques that involve using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. OMM can range from light touch to deeper manipulation and can be used to treat a variety of conditions, from chronic pain to respiratory infections.
- Whole-Person Approach: Osteopathic physicians consider the patient's lifestyle, environment, and emotional well-being, along with their physical health, to provide comprehensive care.

**Step 2: The Role of the Osteopathic Physician**

Osteopathic physicians are trained to be primary care doctors or to specialize in a wide range of medical fields. They are licensed to practice in all 50 states in the U.S. and are increasingly recognized worldwide. As primary care physicians, they can serve as a patient's first point of contact with the health care system, providing preventive care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, and coordinating care with specialists when necessary.

Complementary and Integrative Medicine

Osteopathy is often considered a form of complementary medicine because it can be used alongside conventional medical treatments to enhance patient outcomes. It is holistic, focusing on the well-being of the whole person, not just the affected parts.

Education and Training

Becoming an osteopathic physician requires a rigorous educational process. After completing a premedical undergraduate education, DOs attend osteopathic medical school, which includes a comprehensive curriculum similar to that of allopathic medical schools but with an emphasis on OMM and the osteopathic philosophy. After medical school, they enter a residency program in their chosen specialty, which can last from three to seven years, depending on the specialty.

Research and Advancement

Osteopathic medicine is a growing field, with ongoing research into the effectiveness of OMM and the integration of osteopathic principles into mainstream medical practice. As the body of evidence supporting the benefits of osteopathic care grows, it is likely that osteopathic physicians will play an increasingly important role in health care.

Step 3: Conclusion

In conclusion, osteopathic medicine offers a unique and holistic approach to health care that can complement and enhance conventional medical treatments. With their training in OMM and a patient-centered approach, osteopathic physicians are well-equipped to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to their patients.

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An osteopathic physician will focus on the joints, muscles, and spine. Treatment aims to positively affect the body's nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems. Manual medicine means that both diagnosis and treatment are carried out with the hands. Osteopathy is a complementary therapy.Jul 5, 2017read more >>