What is Osteopathic Medicine?

Osteopathic Medicine is a patient-centered, holistic approach to healthcare founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the late 1800s. It is based on the principle that the body functions as an interconnected unit and has the inherent ability to heal itself when given the right support. By focusing on structural balance, osteopathic care helps restore mobility, relieve pain, and improve overall health.

In the U.S., osteopathic physicians (DOs) complete the same rigorous medical training as MDs, including four years of medical school, postgraduate residency training, and board certification. However, what sets DOs apart is their additional expertise in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)—a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing dysfunction in the body.

Why Choose Osteopathic Care?

Personalized, Whole-Body Approach – Rather than just treating symptoms, DOs address the root causes of pain and dysfunction.
Gentle, Hands-On Treatment – OMT helps restore balance, improve mobility, and relieve pain often without the need for medication or invasive procedures.
Complementary to Conventional Medicine – Osteopathic care integrates seamlessly with other treatments, enhancing recovery from injuries, chronic conditions, and post-surgical healing.
Ideal for All Ages – From newborns to older adults, osteopathic medicine provides gentle, effective care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, osteopathic medicine offers a natural and effective path to better health.

“To find health should be the object of the doctor. Anyone can find disease.”

— A.T. Still"

Dr. Andrew Taylor (A.T.) Still (1828-1917)

What conditions can you treat?

I see people of all ages, from babies to older adults. While this is not an all inclusive list, here are just some of the common conditions I treat:

Headaches (such as migraines, jaw dysfunction, and post-concussion symptoms)
Neck and Back Pain (including scoliosis, pinched nerves, sciatica, and pregnancy related)
Joint Pain (affecting the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle)
Athletic Injuries (including those related to dance, gymnastics, and other sports)

These issues may be acute or chronic and can result from car accidents, falls, surgeries, birth trauma, or other physical stresses

Osteopathy is gentle enough for children and babies, and is particularly useful after difficult births, or for those with:

Reflux
Colic
Frequent Ear Infections
Plagiocephaly/ Torticollis
Latching/Sucking Problems

Other Benefits

Osteopathic physician performing gentle hands-on treatment to enhance mobility and relieve pain

OMT can also help enhance various bodily functions, including:

Respiration - supports conditions like asthma and other breathing difficulties
Circulation - Promotes better blood flow and vascular health.
Digestion - Aides in managing issues such as heartbrun and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Sleep - Helps improves sleep quality and overall restfulness
Chronic Conditions - Provides support for fatigue, fibromyalgia, and other rheumatologic disorders

Calm ocean waves representing tranquility and the holistic healing approach of osteopathic medicine

Before Treatment

Bring any relevant medical records with you prior to your first visit including, lab tests, x rays, and MRIs.
Wear comfortable clothing (loose, light-weight)

During Treatment

Medical History & Exam – A full health review and physical assessment.
Structural Exam – Evaluating the spine, neck, and extremities for imbalances.
Osteopathic Treatment – Hands-on techniques to restore function and mobility.

After Treatment

Drink plenty of water
Avoid strenuous activity
Avoid other treatments such as massage, physical therapy, or acupuncture at least 7 days after osteopathic treatment
Mild soreness may occur within 24-48 hours after treatment—this is a natural part of the healing process.