Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine is a form of medical practice that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders and diseases using a holistic approach.

History

Osteopathic medicine was founded in the late 19th century by Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician. Still believed that many diseases were related to problems with the musculoskeletal system and developed a system of manual therapy, known as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), to treat these conditions.

Key Principles

The key principles of osteopathic medicine include:

• Body unity: The concept that the body is a single, integrated unit and that all its parts are interconnected.
• Self-regulation: The idea that the body has the ability to self-regulate and heal itself.
• Structure-function relationship: The understanding that the structure of the body (e.g. bones, muscles, joints) affects its function (e.g. movement, circulation, digestion).

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)

OMT is a hands-on approach used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose and treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system. It involves the use of various techniques, including:

• Soft tissue techniques: Used to relax muscles and improve circulation.
• Joint mobilization: Used to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
• High-velocity low-amplitude thrusts: Used to restore normal joint movement and reduce pain.
• Cranial osteopathy: A gentle, non-invasive technique used to treat disorders of the head and neck.

Conditions Treated with Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Musculoskeletal disorders: Such as back pain, headaches, and sports injuries.
• Neurological disorders: Such as migraines, sciatica, and peripheral neuropathy.
• Respiratory disorders: Such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Training and Education

Osteopathic physicians (DOs) receive comprehensive training in osteopathic medicine and surgery, including:

• Four years of undergraduate education: Typically in a science-related field.
• Four years of osteopathic medical school: Where they study the principles and practices of osteopathic medicine.
• Clinical rotations: Hands-on training in various clinical settings, such as hospitals and clinics.
• Residency training: Additional specialized training after medical school.

Licensure and Certification

Osteopathic physicians must be licensed to practice medicine in their state and may also choose to become board certified in a particular specialty, such as family medicine or pediatrics.