What is osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)?

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a hands-on approach for easing musculoskeletal pain and other health conditions. Doctors of osteopathic medicine, called DOs or osteopaths, most frequently perform the treatment, but medical doctors (MDs) with specialty training can also perform it. OMT also goes by osteopathic manipulation treatment.

Doctors use OMT to treat mechanical pain muschel, fascial, connective tissue,

joint or bone pain due to structural imbalance). They also use OMT to diagnose and prevent disease and help your body function better.

Using several OMT techniques, doctors apply gentle pressure to manipulate your muscles, soft tissues and joints.

Doctors can also do “popping” or thrust-based techniques but those are used generally less often than with a chiropractor. Your doctor will discuss the recommended technique before it’s used to make sure you’re comfortable. The osteopathic manipulative treatment encourages your body to heal itself by ensuring that your bones and muscles are aligned and balanced properly.