Doctors of osteopathic medicine, known as DOs, are fully licensed physicians who practice a holistic approach to healthcare. They are trained to diagnose and treat medical conditions, just like their MD (Doctor of Medicine) counterparts, but with an added emphasis on the body’s interconnected systems and the influence of lifestyle and environment on health. DOs offer a unique perspective, considering the patient as a whole person – body, mind, and spirit – to promote overall wellness.
Understanding the Core Principles of Osteopathic Medicine
Osteopathic medicine is founded on the principle that all parts of the body are interconnected and work together. This philosophy guides DOs as they seek to understand the root cause of illness, not just treat the symptoms. As Dr. William Burke, dean of the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, explains, DOs are “fully licensed and certified physicians who have a few extra tools in our toolkit.” These “extra tools” often refer to osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on technique used to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal imbalances that can affect overall health.
While over half of DOs specialize in primary care fields such as internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics, they are also found in every medical specialty, including psychiatry, neurology, and cardiovascular surgery. This broad range of specialties highlights that DOs are integral to the mainstream medical landscape, working alongside MDs in hospitals and clinics across the nation. Dr. Burke emphasizes this point, stating, “MDs and DOs work side by side in virtually every hospital in the country.”
The Holistic Approach to Patient Care
A defining characteristic of osteopathic medicine is its emphasis on a whole-person approach to patient care. Dr. Shannon Scott, clinical associate professor at Midwestern University Clinics Arizona, highlights this when she says, “We focus on prevention by looking at how your lifestyle and environment are affecting your health.” This means DOs take the time to understand not only a patient’s physical symptoms but also their lifestyle factors, including home life, family dynamics, and work environment.
Alt text: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine attentively listening to a patient during a consultation, emphasizing holistic patient care.
During a typical visit, a DO will engage in in-depth conversations to understand the various aspects of a patient’s life that could be contributing to their health concerns. This comprehensive assessment considers mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, aiming for a 360-degree view of the patient’s health. The goals of this approach are multifaceted: to alleviate symptoms, prevent future health issues, reduce stress, and empower the body’s natural healing capabilities. While some DOs may also explore complementary and alternative treatments, osteopathic medicine itself is a well-established and respected field within conventional medicine.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT): A Hands-On Technique
One of the unique aspects of osteopathic medicine is osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). This hands-on approach is a cornerstone of DO training and is used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. OMT involves using the hands to gently apply force to diagnose and treat structural imbalances in the musculoskeletal system, which includes muscles, bones, nerves, and connective tissues.
Alt text: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine applying Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) to a patient’s back to address musculoskeletal issues.
DOs utilize OMT to address a wide range of conditions, most notably musculoskeletal pain, such as low back pain, headaches, and sinus problems. As Dr. Burke illustrates with the analogy, “The knee bone’s connected to the thigh bone… The body is a unit, and if one thing is not functioning normally, it can affect everything else.” OMT aims to restore this normal function by correcting structural imbalances, facilitating the body’s inherent ability to heal.
For instance, in cases of chest pain, a DO will first conduct a thorough medical evaluation, including physical exams and diagnostic tests, to rule out serious conditions like pneumonia or heart disease. If musculoskeletal issues are identified as contributing to the pain, the DO may use OMT to address rib displacement or muscle tension. It’s important to note that DOs are also trained in conventional medical treatments, and will provide standard medical care, including medication or surgery, when necessary.
Similarly, for lower back or leg pain, a DO might assess leg length discrepancies or gait abnormalities and use OMT to address these biomechanical factors. While all DOs are trained in OMT, the extent to which they use it in their practice can vary. OMT is particularly effective in relieving pain, improving movement, and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. Some DOs also integrate OMT into the treatment of conditions like asthma, sinus disorders, menstrual pain, and migraines, demonstrating the versatility of this hands-on approach.
Conclusion: Choosing a DO for Holistic Healthcare
Doctors of osteopathic medicine offer a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to healthcare. They are fully qualified physicians who provide the full spectrum of medical care, while also bringing a unique osteopathic perspective that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body and the importance of lifestyle in overall health. Whether you are seeking primary care or specialized medical treatment, a DO can be a valuable partner in your journey to wellness, offering both conventional medical expertise and a holistic, hands-on approach to healing.
