Osteopathy is a medical practice in which various gentle manipulations of the musculoskeletal system are performed by a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) to promote rebalancing and regeneration of the body’s entire systems. It is effective in providing relief from chronic pain and injuries, as well as acute injury and illness. Because their medical degree and license is legally recognized as the equivalent of a M.D. in the United States, DOs can utilize all recognized diagnostic and therapeutic methods in their practice.

Osteopathic treatments focus on the musculoskeletal system, mainly the joints, muscles, spine and cranium. These treatments, known as manipulations, aim to enhance whole body health by correcting imbalances within the musculoskeletal system, thereby improving the functioning of the circulatory, nervous, lymphatic and other systems. Nutrition, exercise and supplementation are also a large part of Osteopathic protocols.

Osteopathic philosophy is holistic in nature, viewing all of the body’s systems as interconnected in structure and function. It is not, however, a preventative system of medicine, in that Osteopaths generally believe in the innate healing power of the body to restore balance when illness or injury has occurred. Due to the pace of our modern world however, the body sometimes needs assistance in dealing with illness or pain. This is where Osteopathy can help in the rebalancing and reintegration of the body’s systems.