What is OMM?

The news including The Rachel Maddow Show, CNN, and NPR have yet to apologize for attempting to turn DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) into a political smear campaign. So let’s take a moment to educate them and the rest of the world on a few key terms including OMM and the differences between DOs and Osteopaths.

OMM, also known as Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine or OMT for Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, is an additional skill we as DOs have to offer patients literally at our fingertips. This set of hands-on techniques is used to assess for and treat structural and functional issues related to the muscles, tissues, joints, and bones of the body. These include soft tissue and myofascial release (reminiscent of massage therapy) as well as high-velocity low amplitude and articulatory methods. OMM is similar to a Chiropractor's manipulations but with a different approach and understanding of the anatomy and musculoskeletal system.

It helps promote movement of blood flow and lymphatic fluids, restore muscle and tissue imbalance, and adjust misalignments. It can complement or in some cases replace medicine and surgery as it has been used for common disorders like asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, muscle and joint pain, sinus problems, and migraines. Learn more HERE.

Often, patients experiencing muscle pain or tenderness, restriction in their range of motion, or asymmetry find relief from OMM. Learn more HERE.

Osteopaths are also trained in these maneuvers. However, osteopaths differ from doctors of osteopathic medicine in that they are not trained to prescribe or practice medicine. Osteopaths are more commonly found outside the US.

And finally, the doctor for the next President of the United States is a DO. With that in mind, to all the countries (speaking to you, Canada) and celebrities (Cher and Bess Kalb) trying to discredit DOs, please stay in your lane.

Thank you for reading. Please pass this on to those who may not be informed. And ask your doctor if OMM is right for you - never underestimate the healing power of touch.