Osteopathic Manipulation Treatment (OMT)

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Osteopathic Manipulation Treatment (OMT)

Osteopathic doctors (DOs) use a hands-on approach, called osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT), to treat musculoskeletal disorders. OMT involves manipulating the body to correct structural imbalances, improve circulation, and relieve pain. This approach is based on the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself and that the musculoskeletal system plays a crucial role in overall health. DOs are trained in a variety of techniques that involve gently manipulating the bones, muscles, and other tissues to promote healing and improve function.

 What is osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)?

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a form of hands-on care used by osteopathic doctors (DOs) to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. It involves the use of gentle but firm pressure to manipulate the bones, muscles, and other tissues in the body.

The goal of OMT is to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, and to promote healing and overall health.

OMT can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia, as well as to improve mobility and range of motion in affected areas. DOs are trained to use a variety of techniques to perform OMT, including stretching, massage, and gentle pressure on specific areas of the body.

Who needs osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT)?

Osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT) can be beneficial for people of all ages who are experiencing musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction.

It can be particularly helpful for individuals who have been involved in accidents or injuries that have caused structural imbalances in the body, such as car accidents or sports injuries. OMT can also be helpful for individuals with chronic conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, or headaches, as well as for those experiencing acute or short-term musculoskeletal issues.

In addition, OMT can be used to improve mobility and range of motion, and to promote overall health and well-being. If you are interested in receiving OMT, you should speak with an osteopathic doctor (DO) or other qualified healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for your needs.

What is a DO?

A DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is a type of physician who is trained to provide comprehensive medical care. Like MDs (Doctors of Medicine), DOs are licensed to diagnose and treat medical conditions, and they can practice in all areas of medicine. DOs are trained to use a holistic approach to healthcare, which means they consider the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, when providing treatment. One aspect of this holistic approach is the use of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which is a form of hands-on care that involves manipulating the body to improve its structure and function.

DOs are also trained to use other medical treatments and therapies, such as medications and surgery, as needed to help their patients achieve optimal health.

DOs don’t just treat symptoms. Using a holistic approach, they focus on you as a whole person to find out what’s causing your symptoms. To help you feel your best, DOs evaluate your:

  • Activity level and exercise habits.
  • Diet.
  • Environment.
  • Lifestyle.
  • Mental and physical health.
  • Sleep habits.
  • Stress levels.

What does OMT treat?

DOs usually use osteopathic manipulative therapy for back pain relief.

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a form of hands-on care that is used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. It is based on the belief that the musculoskeletal system plays a crucial role in overall health, and that by manipulating the bones, muscles, and other tissues in the body, it is possible to improve function and promote healing. Some common conditions that OMT may be used to treat include:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Headaches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Scoliosis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tennis elbow
  • Tendinitis
  • Sprains and strains
  • Postural imbalances

OMT can also be used to improve mobility and range of motion, and to promote overall health and well-being.

But OMT can treat many conditions, including:

  • Breathing issues like asthma and sinus infections.
  • Bowel issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation.
  • Chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, arthritis, menstrual pain and migraines.
  • Musculoskeletal problems like back and neck pain, joint pain and carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Problems associated with pregnancy, such as swelling (edema), insomnia and sciatica.
  • Sports injuries and repetitive stress injuries.

OMT can help improve the function of specific organs in the body by restoring structural imbalances and improving nerve and blood circulation. When the musculoskeletal system is properly aligned and functioning optimally, it can help improve the overall health of the body’s organs.

PROCEDURE DETAILS

What happens before osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT)?

Before receiving osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT), you will typically have a consultation with an osteopathic doctor (DO). During this consultation, the DO will ask you about your medical history, current symptoms, and any previous treatments you have tried. They will also perform a physical examination to assess your musculoskeletal system and determine if OMT is appropriate for your needs.

The DO may also use diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to get a better understanding of your condition. This information will help the DO develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.

It is important to be honest and forthcoming during this consultation, as the DO will need as much information as possible to determine the most appropriate course of treatment. You should also let the DO know if you have any allergies or medical conditions that could affect your treatment.

What happens during OMT?

During an osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) session, the osteopathic doctor (DO) will use a variety of techniques to manipulate the bones, muscles, and other tissues in the body. The DO will use their hands to apply gentle but firm pressure to specific areas of the body, often with the goal of relieving muscle tension and improving the function of the musculoskeletal system.

OMT sessions can vary in length, but they typically last 30 minutes to an hour. The DO will use a variety of techniques during the session, and they may also recommend certain stretches or exercises for you to do at home to help improve your condition.

OMT is generally a safe and effective form of treatment, but you may experience some mild soreness or discomfort after the session. This is typically temporary and should resolve on its own in a day or two. If you have any concerns about your treatment, you should speak with your DO.

What happens after OMT?

After an osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) session, you may experience some mild soreness or discomfort. This is typically temporary and should resolve on its own within a day or two. You may also be given stretches or exercises to do at home to help improve your condition.

It is important to follow any instructions provided by your osteopathic doctor (DO) after your OMT session. This may include recommendations for rest, ice or heat therapy, or over-the-counter pain medications.

You should also schedule follow-up appointments with your DO as recommended to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. If you have any concerns about your recovery after OMT, you should speak with your DO.

After each OMT treatment session, you should:

  • Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated allows toxins to flush out of your muscles after treatment.
  • Go for a walk: A short walk helps your body “settle in” or adjust to the proper alignment and balance.
  • Take it easy: Avoid rigorous physical activity for 24 hours after OMT. Focus on breathing and allowing your body time to rest.

OMT RISKS / BENEFITS

What are the advantages of osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT)?

There are several advantages to receiving osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). Some of the benefits of OMT include:

  • It is a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions
  • It can improve the function of the musculoskeletal system, which can lead to better overall health and well-being
  • It can help improve mobility and range of motion
  • It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia
  • It can be used in conjunction with other medical treatments and therapies
  • It is a non-invasive treatment option that does not require the use of medications or surgery

OMT can be an effective treatment option for individuals of all ages, and it is often used in conjunction with other medical treatments and therapies. If you are interested in receiving OMT, you should speak with an osteopathic doctor (DO) or other qualified healthcare provider at Family Medical Center to determine if it is appropriate for your needs.

What are the risks or complications of OMT?

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is generally a safe and effective form of treatment, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential complications. Some of the potential risks or complications associated with OMT include:

  • Mild soreness or discomfort after the treatment, which is typically temporary and should resolve on its own within a day or two
  • In rare cases, OMT may cause bruising or swelling at the site of treatment
  • OMT may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications, so it is important to discuss your medical history and current medications with your osteopathic doctor (DO) before receiving treatment

If you have any concerns about the potential risks or complications of OMT, you should speak with your DO. They will be able to provide you with more information and help you determine if OMT is appropriate for your needs.

OMT RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK

When can I go back to my usual activities after osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)?

The length of time it takes to recover from osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your condition and the number of treatments you have received.

In general, most people are able to return to their usual activities within a few days of receiving OMT. However, it is important to follow any instructions provided by your osteopathic doctor (DO) after your treatment. They may recommend that you rest or avoid certain activities for a period of time in order to allow your body to heal.

If you are unsure about when you can return to your usual activities after OMT, you should speak with your DO. They will be able to provide you with specific guidance based on your individual circumstances.

WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR

When should I see my healthcare provider about osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)?

You should speak with your healthcare provider about osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) if you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction and are interested in receiving this form of treatment. Your provider can help you determine if OMT is appropriate for your needs and can refer you to an osteopathic doctor (DO) if necessary.

You should also see your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your recovery after OMT or if you experience any unusual symptoms. It is important to report any unusual or concerning symptoms to your provider as soon as possible, as they may be a sign of a more serious issue that requires medical attention.

If you had your OMT session and soreness lasts longer than a few days after treatment Call your DO right away. Pain is not a normal side effect of osteopathic manipulative treatment.

A note from Family Medical Center

Osteopathic manipulation is a safe, effective treatment for back pain and a wide range of health conditions. Using this hands-on approach, DOs realign your body, restore balance and work with you to achieve optimum health. OMT helps prevent disease so you can live a healthy lifestyle. You may feel tired or sore for a little while after treatment, but you shouldn’t feel pain. You may need multiple treatments over several weeks.