Doctors of osteopathic medicine, known as DOs, are fully licensed physicians who practice in every medical specialty. Graduating from osteopathic medical schools in the United States, DOs offer a distinct approach to patient care. Similar to a medical doctor (MD), a DO completes extensive medical training, but with added education in osteopathic philosophy and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).
One key differentiator for a doctor of osteopathic medicine is their training in OMT. This involves a hands-on approach to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. Utilizing their hands, DOs apply gentle pressure to manipulate muscles and joints, aiming to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. However, it’s important to note that not all DOs utilize OMT in their practice, and it represents just one aspect of their comprehensive medical training.
Following medical school, both DOs and MDs undertake residency training in their chosen specialties, which can range from family medicine to surgery, cardiology, and beyond. Furthermore, DOs and MDs must pass the same national licensing examinations to be eligible to practice medicine, prescribe medication, and care for patients. This ensures that both types of physicians meet rigorous standards of medical competence and are qualified to provide comprehensive healthcare. In essence, a doctor of osteopathic medicine provides a holistic and patient-centered approach to medicine, equipped with the same rights, responsibilities, and expertise as their MD counterparts, with the potential addition of osteopathic manipulative techniques to their medical toolkit.
