What is a DO Doctor?
Understanding the Basics of Osteopathic Medicine
Osteopathic medicine is a branch of healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and how it relates to the overall health of an individual. DO doctors, or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, are trained to consider the whole person, taking into account not only their physical health but also their emotional and spiritual well-being.
One of the key principles of osteopathic medicine is that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. DO doctors work to support this natural healing process by addressing any imbalances or dysfunctions within the body. They also use a variety of manual techniques, such as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), to restore proper function to the musculoskeletal system and promote overall wellness.
In addition to their medical training, DO doctors receive extra training in osteopathic manipulative medicine and are licensed to practice the full scope of medicine and surgery in all 50 states in the United States. They may also specialize in areas such as family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, and more.
Differences between MD and DO Degrees
While both MD and DO doctors are licensed to practice medicine and may have similar training, there are some key differences between the two degrees.
MD, or Doctor of Medicine, degrees are typically earned from allopathic medical schools. Allopathic medicine is focused on treating diseases and symptoms with drugs and surgery, and MD doctors are trained to use these tools to manage and cure illnesses.
DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, degrees are earned from osteopathic medical schools. As mentioned earlier, DO doctors take a more holistic approach to medicine and are trained to consider the whole person, including their body, mind, and spirit. They also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, which involves using hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness and injury.
Another difference between the two degrees is the residency program. While MD doctors can complete residencies in any specialty, DO doctors have traditionally had more residencies in primary care specialties such as family medicine and internal medicine. However, this trend is changing, and today DO doctors can specialize in virtually any area of medicine.
It’s important to note that both MD and DO degrees require rigorous training and preparation, and both types of doctors are qualified to provide excellent care to their patients.
Benefits of Seeing a DO Doctor
There are several potential benefits to seeing a DO doctor for your healthcare needs. Here are some of the key advantages:
Holistic Approach: DO doctors are trained to consider the whole person and take into account factors beyond just physical symptoms. They may also offer guidance on lifestyle factors such as nutrition and exercise to help you achieve optimal health.
Manual Techniques: DO doctors may use hands-on techniques such as osteopathic manipulative treatment to help relieve pain and improve function. This can be especially beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and joint pain.
Preventative Care: DO doctors place a strong emphasis on preventative care and may work with you to identify and address risk factors before they become larger problems. This can help you stay healthier in the long run and avoid chronic health conditions.
Whole-Person Care: DO doctors often spend more time with patients than traditional MD doctors, allowing them to develop a more complete understanding of your health concerns and goals. This can lead to a more personalized and effective treatment plan.
Flexibility: DO doctors are licensed to practice the full scope of medicine and surgery, which means they can provide a wide range of treatments and services to meet your needs. They may also offer a more integrative approach to care by incorporating complementary therapies such as acupuncture or massage.
Techniques Used by DO Doctors
DO doctors use a variety of techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness and injury. Here are some of the most common techniques used by DO doctors:
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT): OMT involves using hands-on techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system. OMT can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, and joint pain.
Craniosacral Therapy: This gentle technique involves applying light pressure to the skull and spine to release tension and promote relaxation. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, neck pain, and stress-related disorders.
Myofascial Release: This technique involves applying gentle pressure to the connective tissue surrounding muscles and joints to release tension and improve mobility. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and sports injuries.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling: DO doctors often provide guidance on nutrition and lifestyle factors such as exercise and stress management to help patients achieve optimal health.
Prescription Medications and Surgery: While DO doctors may emphasize non-invasive and holistic treatments, they are licensed to prescribe medications and perform surgeries when necessary.
Finding a DO Doctor Near You
If you’re interested in seeing a DO doctor for your healthcare needs, there are several resources available to help you find one near you. Here are some tips for finding a DO doctor:
Check with your insurance company: Many insurance companies have directories of healthcare providers, including DO doctors. Check with your insurance company to see if they have a list of DO doctors in your area.
Use the DO search tool: The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) has a search tool on their website that allows you to search for DO doctors by location and specialty.
Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family members, or coworkers if they have seen a DO doctor and if they would recommend them.
Check with local hospitals: Many hospitals have DO doctors on staff. Check with hospitals in your area to see if they have any DO doctors who are accepting new patients.
Use online directories: There are several online directories of healthcare providers that allow you to search for DO doctors by location and specialty. Some examples include Healthgrades, Zocdoc, and Vitals.
