Name of the Procedure:

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT); involving 5-6 body regions
Common name(s): Manual therapy, Osteopathic manual therapy

Summary

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a hands-on approach used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. By using their hands, osteopathic physicians apply gentle pressure, resistance, and stretching to address issues in multiple body regions simultaneously.

Purpose

OMT aims to:

• Improve mobility and function of the muscles and joints
• Enhance blood flow and overall circulation
• Reduce pain and discomfort It is used to treat a range of conditions including musculoskeletal pain, headaches, and respiratory issues.

Indications

• Chronic pain (back, neck, joint)
• Headaches and migraines
• Respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis)
• Digestive issues (IBS, constipation)
• Sports injuries
• Symptoms of stress and fatigue

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually needed.
• Wear comfortable clothing to facilitate easy movement.
• Inform the physician of any recent injuries or health changes.
• May require a physical assessment to identify problem areas.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table.
2. The osteopathic physician assesses the patient’s body regions, looking for signs of restricted movement or tension.
3. The physician uses their hands to apply techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance.
4. Techniques may include muscle energy, myofascial release, or counterstrain.
5. The physician may work on 5-6 different body regions such as the back, neck, legs, and arms. No anesthesia or sedation is typically used, as the procedure is generally well-tolerated.

Duration

Each session typically lasts between 30-60 minutes.

Setting

OMT is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a physician’s office.

Personnel

• Osteopathic physician (DO)

Risks and Complications

• Minor soreness or stiffness
• Rarely, there may be minor bruising or temporary discomfort
• Extremely rare risks include nerve damage or worsening of symptoms.

Benefits

• Relief from pain and tension
• Improved mobility and function
• Enhanced overall well-being Benefits are often noticed immediately or within a few days post-treatment.

Recovery

• Mild soreness may occur, typically resolving in a day or two.
• Patients are often advised to rest and stay hydrated.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on individual needs.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Medications (analgesics, anti-inflammatories)
• Invasive procedures like injections or surgery Each alternative comes with its own set of benefits and risks. Physical therapy, for example, focuses on exercises and may not offer the same hands-on approach as OMT.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel pressure, stretching, or mild discomfort but should not experience pain. Afterward, they may feel relaxed and relieved of tension. Pain management typically includes over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary, although discomfort is generally mild.