Osteopathic medicine is a distinct branch of medical practice in the United States that emphasizes a “whole-person” approach to healthcare. It is practiced by Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), who are fully licensed physicians and surgeons trained to provide all aspects of modern medical care, including prescribing medications and performing surgery.
Core Philosophy and Tenets
The profession is guided by four central principles, originally developed by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in 1874:
- The body is a unit: The person is a unified whole of body, mind, and spirit.
- Self-healing: The body possesses innate mechanisms for self-regulation, self-healing, and health maintenance.
- Structure and function: The structure of the body and its function are reciprocally interrelated.
- Rational treatment: Medical care should be based on an understanding of these principles, focusing on the patient’s overall wellness rather than just treating symptoms.
Key Features of Osteopathic Practice
- Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT): DOs receive 200–500 additional hours of training in the musculoskeletal system. They use OMT, a set of hands-on techniques involving stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance, to diagnose and treat illness or injury.
- Preventative Focus: There is a strong emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, with DOs often partnering with patients to address lifestyle and environmental factors.