OMM stands for Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, which is a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness or injury. Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine is practiced by osteopathic physicians, who are trained in osteopathic medicine.
Osteopathic physicians (DOs) undergo similar medical training as allopathic physicians (MDs), but they also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which is a key component of OMM. OMT involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other health conditions.
OMT techniques may include stretching, gentle pressure, resistance, and manipulation of muscles and joints to improve function, relieve pain, and promote healing. Osteopathic physicians may use OMT as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for various conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain, sports injuries, and more.
OMM encompasses not only OMT but also a holistic approach to patient care, focusing on the relationship between the body’s structure and function and its ability to heal itself. Osteopathic physicians emphasize preventive care, lifestyle modifications, and the body’s natural ability to heal, viewing the patient as a whole person rather than just a collection of symptoms.
