Osteopathic/Manual Medicine

Osteopathic medicine is guided by three central principles: the body should be treated as a whole unit, including its connection to mind and spirit; structure and function are interrelated; and the body has a natural inclination to heal itself.

Prevention and wellness are central to osteopathy. Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs) complete educational training similar to allopathic doctors (MDs) and are similarly licensed to practice a full scope of medicine in any specialty of choice.

Manual medicine can help change the resting tension in a muscle or tendon, “reset” a trigger point, alter tension or torque within a ligament or fascial plane, change alignment or asymmetry of bones or joints, help address structures that may be impinging on nerves, and support lymphatic flow, visceral function, cerebrospinal fluid flow, and immune function.

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What Is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine?

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), like Doctors of Medicine (MDs), are fully licensed physicians in the United States who can practice medicine and surgery in all specialties.

As part of their medical training, DOs receive specialized education in the musculoskeletal system, including the interconnected relationships between nerves, muscles, fascia, bones, organs, and the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

DOs practice in all areas of medicine, including primary care, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, psychiatry, and surgery. Some DOs specialize in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), while others integrate OMM into their specialty care.

Learn more at the American Osteopathic Association .

What Is Osteopathic Manual Medicine?

Osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) is a hands-on approach performed by physicians trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). It emphasizes whole-person care and focuses on restoring balance and function within the body.

Physicians trained in OMM develop refined palpation skills to assess areas of restriction or dysfunction. Treatment is designed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

What Does Treatment Look Like?

OMM treatments involve a range of hands-on techniques, from gentle, subtle methods to more direct approaches such as stretching, joint articulation, and guided movement.

Treatments may address muscles, joints, ligaments, fascia, organs, the nervous system, and lymphatic flow. Each session is tailored to the individual and their needs at the time of the visit.

What to Expect During a Visit

During your visit, your physician will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Treatments are typically performed while lying comfortably on a treatment table.

OMT is generally gentle and should not be painful. Responses to treatment vary, and benefits may continue to develop in the days following your visit.

How to Prepare

Conditions Treated

OMT can be used across all ages and may support a wide range of conditions: