wexford's Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy Specialist
Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy
At Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh (DCPP), we offer OMT as part of our comprehensive care approach. Our experienced osteopathic physician is specially trained in OMT techniques, and she's here to help you find the relief you need.
Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy for Back Pain & More
What Is OMT? Learn More About OMT Treatment
Osteopathic manipulative treatment, or OMT, is a set of hands-on techniques used by osteopathic physicians (DOs) to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. In medicine, 'manipulation' is defined as the therapeutic application of manual pressure or force. OMT can be used to treat structural and functional issues in the bones, joints, tissues, and muscles of the body. OMT can complement, and even replace, drugs or surgery. In this way, DOs bring an important dimension to standard medical care.
The majority of DOs use manipulation to treat musculoskeletal disorders such as:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Sports injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Some types of headaches
OMT can help people of all ages and backgrounds. These techniques can:
- Treat a wide variety of common ailments, including headaches, arthritis, stress injuries, sports injuries, and pain in areas such as the lower back, neck, shoulders
- Help to ease pain, promote healing, and increase overall mobility.
- Relieve joint restriction and misalignment
- Restore muscle and tissue balance
- Provide a non-invasive and medication-free treatment option for patients.
- Be administered safely in combination with other medical treatments to improve outcomes
If you’re interested in learning more about how OMT may be able to help you find relief, reach out to the team at DCPP. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have and ultimately set you up with a consultation to discuss the next steps with one highly-trained DOs. Or, if you’re ready to try it, schedule your first appointment with our osteopathic physician today. Discuss the next steps with our OMT board-certified DO today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy
What is a DO?
A DO is a doctor of osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine focuses on the total person, with an
appreciation for the interrelationship of the various systems of the body to maintain health and to prevent illness and disease. Osteopathic medicine is the fastest growing medical field in the United States.
In addition to conventional medical training, a DO also receives special training in the musculoskeletal
system, the body's intricate system of muscles, nerves, and bones. With this, they receive "hands on"
training in osteopathic diagnosis and manipulative treatment. This advanced training provides DOs with a keen understanding of how the body's systems are interconnected and how each one affects the others.
This acts as an extra tool to treat patient ailments. Doctors of osteopathy literally take a hands-on
approach to musculoskeletal disorders and more!
What’s the difference between OMT vs chiropractor?
OMT and chiropractic care are both hands-on treatment approaches that can be used to treat musculoskeletal pain. However, there are some key differences between OMT and chiropractic care.
Osteopathic physicians are trained in both medical and OMT techniques, while chiropractors are only trained in chiropractic techniques. Only a physician who is certified in Osteopathic Manipulation can perform OMT. Chiropractic work focuses on the spine, while osteopathic manipulation can include work on the bones, joints, muscles, soft tissues, lymphatic systems, and internal organs.
What’s the difference between osteopathic medicine vs physical therapy?
While both osteopathic medicine and physical therapy can be used to treat musculoskeletal pain, there are some key differences between these two approaches. Osteopathic physicians are trained in both medical and OMT techniques, while physical therapists are only trained in physical therapy techniques.
How can I get started with the best osteopathic manipulative therapy near me?
At Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh, we make it easy for patients to learn more about us and get started with their initial consultation. Just submit an online appointment request using our online tool.