An osteopath is a doctor that specializes in the physical manipulation of the tissues, bones and muscles. Similar to a chiropractor, osteopaths take a holistic approach and view the body as a whole, understanding that pain in one area could be originating from another area of the body.

Osteopathic doctors follow much of the same path as traditional doctors when it comes to schooling. Pre-med classes, four years of medical school and residency are required to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). Like traditional doctors, a D.O. can prescribe medicine and make referrals for surgical procedures.

With their holistic approach and focus on the musculoskeletal system they use a

series of hands-on techniques to help diagnose illness or injury and facilitate the body’s natural tendency toward self-healing.

Treatments Performed by a Chiropractor and Osteopath

Chiropractic treatments can vary depending on the nature and severity of a person’s condition. Prior to any treatment they will perform an evaluation of your neurological and physical issues before providing a treatment plan. Common forms of treatment include:

• Chiropractic adjustment – During an adjustment, the chiropractor applies force to a specific area of the body in order to correct a misalignment (called a subluxation) of a particular joint.

• Flexion distraction – This technique uses a specialized table to flex your lower spine. This gentle stretch helps to “plump up” the intervertebral discs and reduce pain.

• Electrical stimulation – E-stim machines use electricity to stimulate muscle contraction, increasing circulation and reducing inflammation. E-stim procedures are not painful; most patients typically feel a “buzzing” or tingling sensation.

• Manual therapy – Manual therapy is a form of therapy where clinicians use their hands to achieve desired results for their patients instead of using devices or machines.

An Osteopathic Doctor will first begin with assessing the patient’s habits, stress level, other medical problems, nutrition, and physical fitness before beginning a treatment plan. The aim of osteopathic manipulation is to improve pain, range of motion, and function. Common osteopathic manipulation techniques include:

• Articulation – Moving the joints to increase range of motion.

• Counterstrain – Helps alleviate tender or trigger points.

• Muscle energy -Strengthens weak muscles and relaxes tight muscles.

• Myofascial release -Stretches muscle tissues to reduce muscle tightness and pain.

• Thrust treats- Joint motion loss by moving the joint against its resistance

To recap, a chiropractor uses manipulative techniques to adjust your spine and joint position to improve nerve function and the ability to heal.

Osteopaths use massages, manipulation and stretching to help re-balance the body’s structure to enhance nerve function and blood flow.