Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, commonly known as D.O.s or Osteo Doctors, are fully licensed physicians who practice in all areas of medicine. Graduating from osteopathic medical schools in the United States, they bring a unique approach to patient care. But how does an osteo doctor compare to other medical professionals?
One of the primary distinctions lies in their training. While both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s) and Doctors of Medicine (M.D.s) undergo rigorous medical education, osteopathic physicians receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). This involves a hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating illness and injury, focusing on the musculoskeletal system and its interconnectedness with other body systems. This manual medicine can include therapeutic massage and manipulation of joints and tissues to promote healing and overall wellness.
Following medical school, both D.O.s and M.D.s are required to complete residency training in their chosen specialties, which can range from family medicine to surgery. Furthermore, they must pass the same national licensing examinations to be able to practice medicine, prescribe medication, and care for patients. This ensures that both types of physicians meet the same high standards of medical competency.
In essence, an osteo doctor is a physician with comprehensive medical training, similar to an M.D., but with added expertise in osteopathic philosophy and manual medicine techniques. Patients can confidently seek care from an osteo doctor for a wide range of medical needs, knowing they are receiving treatment from a fully qualified and licensed medical professional.
