Overview

Osteopathic manipulation is a physical treatment that is provided by some practitioners of osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine is a complete system of medicine that uses a wide variety of methods for diagnosing and treating all types of medical conditions.

In the US, osteopathic physicians (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, DO) are licensed physicians who are similar to physicians with the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine and Doctors of Medicine use the same diagnostic procedures and treatments. In addition to these approaches, osteopathic physicians are also trained to use manipulative techniques, such as spinal adjustments.

Osteopathic manipulation is a physical medicine performed by osteopathic physicians. Like chiropractors, doctors of osteopathic medicine believe that problems with the muscles and bones (musculoskeletal system) can result in illness. So some osteopathic physicians use specific spinal manipulations for some conditions, especially back pain or neck pain. Osteopathic physicians also use conventional treatments such as medication, psychiatry, surgery, etc.

How does it work ?

Osteopathic manipulation is a physical medicine performed by osteopathic physicians. Like chiropractors, doctors of osteopathic medicine believe that problems with the muscles and bones (musculoskeletal system) can result in illness. So some osteopathic physicians use specific spinal manipulations for some conditions, especially back pain or neck pain. Osteopathic physicians also use conventional treatments such as medication, psychiatry, surgery, etc.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

  • Back pain. Most research shows that osteopathic manipulation can moderately improve low back pain. Osteopathic manipulation seems to have a stronger effect in people with more severe pain.
  • Neck pain. Most research shows that osteopathic manipulation seems to improve neck pain.
  • Pain during pregnancy. Some research shows that osteopathic manipulation moderately reduces back pain during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Possibly Ineffective for

  • Cerebral palsy. Research in children with cerebral palsy shows that osteopathic manipulation does not seem to improve movement, function, sleep, pain, or quality of life.

There is interest in using osteopathic manipulation for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when it is used appropriately by a trained professional for a short time. Studies show that osteopathic manipulation does not seem to cause serious side effects.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when given appropriately by a trained professional and for a short time.

Children: Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when given appropriately by a trained professional and for a short time.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Osteopathic Manipulation overview.

Dosing

The appropriate or safe use of osteopathic medicine depends on several factors such as the condition being treated or the person administering the treatment. Be sure to seek and follow relevant directions from your physician or other healthcare professional before using this treatment.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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