What is osteopathic medicine and how does it differ from traditional medicine. How are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) trained compared to Medical Doctors (MDs). What can patients expect from an osteopathic approach to healthcare.

The Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine is a distinctive branch of healthcare that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. Founded over a century ago by Andrew Taylor Still, this approach to medicine is based on the principle that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when its structure is properly aligned. Osteopathic physicians, known as DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine), focus on treating the whole person rather than just addressing specific symptoms or isolated body parts.

The core philosophy of osteopathic medicine revolves around the musculoskeletal system’s role in overall health. DOs believe that many diseases can result from or cause problems within this system, which includes nerves, muscles, and bones. By paying attention to how all body parts work together, osteopathic physicians aim to prevent and treat health issues through a comprehensive approach.

Key Principles of Osteopathic Medicine

• Holistic approach to patient care
• Focus on prevention and wellness
• Emphasis on the body’s ability to heal itself
• Recognition of the musculoskeletal system’s importance in overall health

The Training and Education of Osteopathic Physicians

Becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine requires rigorous education and training. Most aspiring DOs first earn a bachelor’s degree, with many also holding master’s degrees or doctorates before entering osteopathic medical school. The path to becoming a DO is as demanding and comprehensive as that of becoming an MD.

How long does it take to become a DO? The journey typically involves:

1. 4 years of undergraduate studies
2. 4 years of osteopathic medical school
3. 3-7 years of residency in a chosen specialty

During their medical education, DOs receive training in all aspects of modern medicine, including the ability to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and conduct various medical tests. What sets their training apart is the additional focus on the musculoskeletal system and the practice of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT).

Osteopathic vs. Allopathic Medicine: DOs and MDs Compared

While both DOs and MDs are fully licensed physicians in the United States, there are some distinctions in their approaches to patient care. The primary difference lies in the philosophical foundation of their medical training.

Similarities between DOs and MDs:

• Both complete 4 years of medical school
• Both complete residencies in their chosen specialties
• Both can practice in all 50 states and prescribe medications
• Both can specialize in any field of medicine

Key Differences:

• DOs receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system
• DOs learn Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
• DOs tend to have a more holistic approach to patient care

Are DOs as qualified as MDs? Absolutely. Both types of physicians are equally qualified to practice medicine in the United States. The choice between seeing a DO or an MD often comes down to personal preference and the specific health needs of the patient.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: A Unique Approach to Healing

One of the distinguishing features of osteopathic medicine is the use of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). This hands-on technique is used by DOs to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. OMT involves moving muscles and joints using techniques that include stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance.

What are the benefits of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment? OMT can help:

• Alleviate pain in muscles and joints
• Improve circulation
• Promote overall health and well-being
• Complement or replace medications in some cases
• Assist in recovering from injuries

OMT encompasses over 40 different techniques, each designed to address specific issues within the body. Some of the most commonly used techniques include:

1. Soft tissue technique: Involves stretching and applying pressure to muscles
2. Muscle energy technique: The patient moves their muscles in a specific direction while the DO applies a counterforce
3. Myofascial release: Gentle but firm pressure is applied to release tension in the fascia
4. Cranial osteopathy: Soft pressure is applied to the skull to stimulate healing

The Growing Popularity of Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years. There are now more than 114,000 osteopathic doctors practicing in the United States, and this number continues to grow. Interestingly, more than one in four U.S. medical students are currently on the path to becoming doctors of osteopathic medicine.

What factors are contributing to the increasing popularity of osteopathic medicine? Several key aspects have played a role:

• Growing interest in holistic and preventive healthcare approaches
• Increased recognition of the mind-body connection in health and wellness
• Expanding acceptance of complementary and alternative medicine practices
• The ability of DOs to practice in all medical specialties

As more patients seek out comprehensive care that addresses their overall well-being, the osteopathic approach has gained traction. This trend is likely to continue as healthcare evolves to meet the changing needs and preferences of patients.

What to Expect During an Osteopathic Examination

An examination with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine is similar in many ways to a visit with any other physician. However, there are some unique aspects that reflect the osteopathic philosophy of holistic care.

During an osteopathic examination, you can expect:

• A comprehensive review of your medical history
• Standard health measurements (blood pressure, weight, etc.)
• Discussion of your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and stress levels
• A thorough physical examination, potentially including osteopathic manipulative techniques
• Recommendations for preventive care and wellness strategies

DOs place a strong emphasis on prevention, so you may receive advice on how to avoid potential health issues in the future. This could include guidance on ergonomics, exercise routines, or stress management techniques.

Can osteopathic treatments replace traditional medical care? While osteopathic medicine can be highly effective for many conditions, it’s important to note that DOs are trained in all aspects of modern medicine. They may recommend a combination of osteopathic treatments and conventional medical approaches, depending on your individual needs and health status.

Osteopathic Medicine vs. Naturopathy: Understanding the Differences

While osteopathic medicine and naturopathy may sound similar due to their focus on natural healing processes, they are distinct fields with important differences. Understanding these differences can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare options.

Key Distinctions:

• Education and Training: DOs complete accredited medical school programs, while naturopathic training varies
• Licensing: DOs are licensed physicians in all 50 states; naturopaths’ licensing varies by state
• Treatment Approaches: DOs integrate conventional medicine with osteopathic techniques; naturopaths focus on natural remedies
• Scope of Practice: DOs can prescribe medication and perform surgery; naturopaths generally cannot

How does the approach of a DO differ from that of a naturopathic practitioner? While both may emphasize natural healing processes, DOs are trained in all aspects of modern medicine and can provide a full range of medical services. Naturopathic practitioners typically focus on natural substances and lifestyle changes to promote healing.

It’s important to note that while naturopathy can be beneficial for some conditions, it is not a substitute for conventional medical care. Patients should always consult with licensed medical professionals for serious health concerns.

The Future of Osteopathic Medicine in Healthcare

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, osteopathic medicine is well-positioned to play an increasingly important role. The holistic, patient-centered approach of osteopathic medicine aligns well with current trends in healthcare that emphasize preventive care, patient empowerment, and the integration of physical and mental health.

What developments can we expect in the field of osteopathic medicine?

• Increased research into the efficacy of osteopathic manipulative treatments
• Greater integration of osteopathic principles into mainstream healthcare practices
• Expansion of osteopathic medical schools and training programs
• Growing collaboration between DOs and other healthcare professionals

As more patients seek comprehensive, personalized care, the demand for osteopathic physicians is likely to continue growing. The unique skill set of DOs, combining traditional medical knowledge with osteopathic principles, positions them to address the complex health challenges of the 21st century.

Will osteopathic medicine become the dominant form of healthcare? While it’s unlikely to completely replace traditional allopathic medicine, osteopathic principles are increasingly being recognized and incorporated into various healthcare settings. The future of medicine may well see a more integrated approach that combines the strengths of both osteopathic and allopathic traditions.

Challenges and Opportunities

As osteopathic medicine continues to grow, it faces both challenges and opportunities:

• Increasing public awareness and understanding of osteopathic medicine
• Addressing misconceptions about the differences between DOs and MDs
• Expanding research to further validate osteopathic approaches
• Integrating osteopathic principles into emerging technologies and treatment modalities

By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on opportunities for growth and integration, osteopathic medicine is poised to make significant contributions to the future of healthcare.

Choosing Between a DO and an MD: Factors to Consider

When seeking medical care, patients often have the option to choose between a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and a Medical Doctor (MD). While both are fully qualified physicians, there are some factors to consider when making this choice.

Considerations when choosing between a DO and an MD:

• Personal health needs and preferences
• Interest in a holistic approach to healthcare
• Specific medical conditions or symptoms
• Availability of practitioners in your area
• Insurance coverage and network providers

Is one type of doctor better suited for certain conditions? While both DOs and MDs are qualified to treat a wide range of medical issues, some patients may find the osteopathic approach particularly beneficial for certain conditions, such as:

• Chronic pain disorders
• Musculoskeletal problems
• Stress-related illnesses
• Conditions that benefit from a holistic treatment approach

Ultimately, the choice between a DO and an MD should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the specific expertise of the physician. Many patients find that they can benefit from seeing both types of doctors, depending on their health concerns and goals.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Physician

Regardless of whether you choose a DO or an MD, it’s important to ask questions to ensure you’re comfortable with your healthcare provider. Consider asking:

• What is your approach to patient care?
• How do you incorporate preventive medicine into your practice?
• What is your experience with my specific health concerns?
• How do you stay current with medical advancements?
• What is your philosophy on integrating different treatment modalities?

By asking these questions and discussing your health goals, you can find a physician who aligns with your needs and values, whether they are a DO or an MD.

The Impact of Osteopathic Medicine on Patient Outcomes

As osteopathic medicine continues to grow in popularity, researchers are increasingly studying its impact on patient outcomes. While more research is needed, early studies suggest that the osteopathic approach may offer benefits in several areas of healthcare.

Potential Benefits of Osteopathic Care:

• Improved pain management, particularly for musculoskeletal conditions
• Enhanced patient satisfaction due to the holistic approach
• Reduced reliance on pain medications in some cases
• Improved outcomes in preventive care and chronic disease management

How does osteopathic care impact long-term health outcomes? While more longitudinal studies are needed, some research suggests that patients under osteopathic care may experience:

• Better management of chronic conditions
• Improved quality of life measures
• Reduced healthcare costs over time
• Greater patient engagement in their own health and wellness

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of osteopathic care can vary depending on the individual patient, the specific condition being treated, and the skill of the practitioner. As with any medical approach, outcomes can vary, and osteopathic care should be part of a comprehensive healthcare strategy.

The Role of Research in Advancing Osteopathic Medicine

Ongoing research is crucial for validating and refining osteopathic approaches. Current areas of study include:

• The efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for various conditions
• The impact of osteopathic care on patient-reported outcomes
• Cost-effectiveness of osteopathic approaches in healthcare systems
• Integration of osteopathic principles in emerging medical technologies

As more research is conducted, it will help to further establish the role of osteopathic medicine in modern healthcare and guide its integration with other medical approaches.

What Is Osteopathic Medicine?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Is Osteopathic Medicine?
• How Are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine Trained?
• Osteopathic vs. Naturopathic Practitioners
• What to Expect From an Osteopath
• Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

Osteopathic medicine is based on the idea that all the body’s systems are interrelated. Osteopaths focus on treating the whole person. There are more than 114,000 osteopathic doctors in the U.S. And more than 1 in 4 U.S. medical students are on the path to becoming a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO).

Osteopathic medicine dates back more than 100 years. Its founder, Andrew Taylor Still, thought that correcting problems with the body’s structure could help the body heal itself. Still, who practiced during the Civil War, believed that spine problems can send nerve signals out to all the organs and make you sick. He developed osteopathic manipulation treatments  with a goal of restoring the nerves to a healthy state and promoting circulation so the body could heal itself.

One key idea in this field is that many diseases result from, or cause, problems within the body’s musculoskeletal system, which includes nerves, muscles, and bones. DOs pay extra attention to how all your body parts work together in order to prevent or treat health issues. And they get special training in that.

Osteopathic medicine is about your whole body, not just specific parts or symptoms. So if you come in with, say, knee pain, they’re likely going to look at more than your knee.

Osteopathic doctors believe touch can be healing. All DOs are trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment, sometimes called manual manipulation or OMT. That’s a hands-on method to help diagnose and treat illnesses. Not all DOs use it regularly in their practice, though.

Most students who apply to osteopathic medical school first earn a bachelor’s degree and many also have a master’s degree or doctorate.

Osteopathic doctors get extra training in the musculoskeletal system. But they also learn all the other parts of modern medicine. They can prescribe medication, do surgery, run tests, and do everything else you would expect from a doctor.

After 4 years of medical school, osteopathic doctors do a residency in their chosen area of specialty. Just like an MD, they may become a primary care doctor, a pediatrician, or a specialist like a dermatologist or cardiologist.

While osteopathy and naturopathy may sound similar, they’re different. Naturopathic medicine is a system that uses natural remedies to heal your body.

Like DOs, naturopathic practitioners are trained, but the type of training varies. Naturopathic doctors complete a 4-year graduate-level program at a naturopathic medical school. Naturopaths aren’t licensed and take training programs that aren’t certified by the U.S. Department of Education.  

DOs focus on hands-on diagnosis and treatment along with prescription medicine, surgery, and technology. A naturopathic practitioner’s goal is to heal you through natural substances like food, herbs, and water, plus lifestyle changes such as exercise and lowering your stress.

An exam with an OD is similar to an exam with any other kind of doctor. You’ll get your blood pressure checked, and you’ll step on a scale. They’ll want to hear about your lifestyle — such as what you eat, what you do for exercise, and how stressed you feel — as well as any symptoms that bother you.

Prevention is a big part of the osteopathic approach to medicine, so your DO will probably give you advice to help you avoid injuries or diseases down the road. An osteopath can give you any vaccines you need and recommend routine medical tests like a mammogram or a cholesterol blood test, a quit-smoking program, or screening tests for depression or another mental health problem. 

Medicare and private insurance should treat your appointment the same as a visit to any other doctor.

A main way ODs are different from MDs is that they may use osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to diagnose and treat illnesses. They believe tightness and restriction in your nerves and muscles can be caused by or lead to other problems. So they use their hands to gently move your joints and tissues to correct any restrictions in your range of motion.

The practice includes 40 techniques, including:

• Soft tissue. You’ll feel stretching and pressure on your muscles.
• Muscle energy. In this technique, you move your muscles in a specific direction while the DO counters that movement. Think push-pull.
• Myofascial release. Your DO uses firm but gentle pressure to release tension in the fascia, which is the layer of connective tissue that surrounds your bones, muscles, and organs.
• Osteopathic cranial manipulative medicine. Your DO applies soft pressure to your skull to stimulate healing.

Some find that this natural treatment helps in place of drugs or surgery for some conditions. It’s often used for muscle pain, but it can help treat a wide range of health problems, including:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Sports injuries
• Repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
• Some headaches, including migraines
• Asthma
• Sinus problems
• Menstrual pain

Some pediatric DOs use OMT to help treat asthma, earaches, and colic. So far, only a small number of good studies have looked at the use of OMT in children. The results have been mixed.

You may feel soreness for a day or two after the treatment. There are usually no other side effects. Depending on your case, your DO may find that you also need other treatments, such as medicine or surgery.

Top Picks

What is the Difference between DO and MD? | Rocky Vista Health Center

Most people seeking medical training in Parker, CO, prefer training as an MD physician over a DO. The medical training for both degrees has equal rights and responsibilities in healthcare. Medical students must complete at least 200 hours of learning, four years of medical school, residency, special training, and fellowships to qualifying as physicians who can practice medicine. 

The DO must graduate from Osteopathic medical school and an MD must graduate from an Allopathic medical school. Here are some of the perceptions people hold as to why DO is less prestigious than MD.

Licensing after Medical School, Do vs. MD

MD students sit for the United States Medical Licensing Examination, which is also called the board exam, before applying for a medical license. This exam is designed for medical students pursuing allopathic medicine. On the other hand, students pursuing Osteopathic medicine can take the United States Medical Licensing Examination or a test that is just like it called the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination.

DO vs.

MD salary

Statistically speaking, most DOs earn less than MDs. The difference in their earnings is not a direct relation to their qualifications or marketability. Also, the difference in their remunerations stems from their practice fields. DOs focus on primary healthcare fields. In this field, the physicians earn less than those who specialize in specific areas. This means that the wage is lower on average though the graduates receive the same training and compensation when all things are constant.

Few international medical school opportunities

An MD qualification is recognizable the world over in comparison to a DO. A physician with an MD can practice medicine in many countries around the world. The shortfall with a DO qualification is that it does not equal international standing as an MD. This may seem unfair, but it is the reality the world over.

Reputation

In most cases, an MD degree is held in higher esteem than a DO degree. This may not always be the case across the board. According to the relevant bodies, there is not enough information to prove that becoming a DO is the best choice for those physicians. It is common for most people to assume that all physicians have MD degrees. This may mean that a DO degree seems like a lower qualification in comparison. The same also goes for admission to medical school, where it is statistically easier to join a Do class than an MD one. A good reputation does not guarantee good medical practice.

Difficulty in getting residency

On paper, a DO graduate can opt for either a DO or an MD residency program. It seems good, but some residency programs are difficult for one with a DO degree to gain admission. This means that some residency programs openly favor MD graduates.

DO vs MD – What’s the difference? – Health – Blogs

The difference between MD and DO: choosing the right doctor for you

18 lin, 2020 od Adrian

content

Overview

You can tell which doctorate you have by spelling it after the title. If they went to a traditional (allopathic) medical school, they will have “MD” in their name, which means they have an M.D. If they went to an osteopathic medical school, they will have “DO” after their name, which means they have an osteopathic doctor.

They have many more MDs in the US than DOs. However, more and more medical students are becoming DOs.

The differences between MD and DO are often subtle. Doctors mainly focus on treating certain conditions with medications. DOs, ​​on the other hand, tend to focus on the whole body, with or without traditional medications. They usually have a stronger holistic approach and are trained in additional hours of hands-on technique. Some argue that DOs place more emphasis on disease prevention, but prevention plays an important role in the work of both.

When discussing the differences between these two types of physicians, it is important to keep in mind that both types are qualified physicians who must meet strict requirements before they can obtain a medical license.

What is the difference between allopathic and osteopathic medicine?

When it comes to medicine, there are two main philosophies known as allopathy and osteopathy.

Allopathy

Doctors study allopathy at medical school. It is more traditional than the two philosophies and is what many consider “modern medicine.” Allopathic medicine emphasizes the use of drugs to treat diseases that are usually diagnosed through tests or procedures such as a complete blood count or x-ray.

Most medical schools teach allopathic medicine.

osteopathy

Do they study osteopathy for a degree? Compared to allopathy, it focuses more on treating the body as a whole rather than treating specific conditions. Osteopathic medicine students learn to evaluate people using the same tools and procedures as allopathic medicine students. However, they also learn how to use osteopathic manual medicine (OMM), sometimes referred to as osteopathic manual therapy. This includes using the hands to diagnose, treat, or prevent injury or disease.

Examples of OMM during a medical examination include:

• stretching a limb, like opening an arm
• applying light pressure or resistance to certain areas
• feeling someone’s bones, joints, organs, or other structures through the skin

Important to note that all DOs learn these techniques, but not every DOE uses them in their medical practice.

Do they train differently?

Both DOs and MDs learn to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness and injury. As a result, they received almost the same training, including:

• four years of medical school post bachelor’s degree
• one to seven years residency program

The main difference is that DOs must complete an additional 200 hours of study. This supplemental workout focuses on the bones, muscles, and nerves and how they affect the overall health of the body. In addition, DOs may attend additional holistic or alternative therapy classes. Their courses may also focus more on preventive medicine, although this is still being studied in allopathic medical schools.

Do they take different exams?

Both types of physicians must pass a national test before being allowed to treat. Physicians must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). DOs must pass the Comprehensive Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) but may also choose USMLE.

These tests mostly cover the same material, but often ask different questions. COMLEX also contains additional questions about OMM.

Who would I choose for my doctor?

There is no right answer when it comes to choosing between MD or DO. Both are equally qualified to treat and prescribe medications if you need them. If you are looking for a more suitable doctor who might be more open to alternative treatment options, consider seeing a doctor. This does not mean that your doctor will also not be open to alternative treatment options.

You must also consider your medical needs. According to the American Osteopathic Association, more than half of physicians choose primary care physicians.