Osteopathic treatment is an alternative medicine technique that focuses on the alignment of the spine to encourage the body to heal itself. Developed in the late 1800s, osteopathic doctors have a D.O. suffix, which stands for doctor of osteopathic medicine, instead of an M.D. suffix, which stands for doctor of medicine. However, there are more differences than just a few simple letters. Consider the following three benefits of osteopathic medicine, and how it could help you. 

Why Visit an Osteopathic Practitioner?

1. Whole-Person Medical Care

Unlike traditional medicine, which typically only focuses on disease management or injury treatment, osteopathic practitioners are committed to whole-person medical care. In addition to being fully qualified to offer family medical care and injury treatment, osteopathic practitioners will take the time to talk with you, carefully review your symptoms, and look for connections between your illnesses or injuries that could point to a better diagnosis. If you break your arm because you stumbled and fell, your alternative medicine doctor may treat your arm, while also attempting to discern the reason why you were stumbling in the first place. 

2. Treat A Wide Range of Symptoms

Osteopathic medicine uses osteopathic manipulations, or adjustments of the spine, to align the body and encourage self-healing. Through gentle stretching, pressure, and resistance, osteopathic treatment manipulates interconnected systems, such as the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, to promote full-body wellness. This form of alternative medicine is effective in treating a long list of issues, including ear and sinus problems, migraines, menstrual pain, lower back pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

3. Drug-Free, Non-Invasive Therapies

Unlike traditional medical treatments, alternative medicine focuses on offering patients drug-free, non-invasive therapies—which makes these practices excellent for secondary care or symptom management. If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment, you could use osteopathic manipulations to improve sleep and reduce pain, improving your daily life, and alleviating the negative impacts of chemotherapy or other forms of treatment. 

When you are ready to fully address your health concerns, visit Columbia Osteopathic Clinic to find the relief you need. For more than 33 years, Dr. Suzanne Alt has been offering alternative medicine, nutritional counseling, and osteopathic manipulation to her clients, helping them to overcome issues ranging from lower back pain to chronic migraines. To find out more about how she can help, visit her website, or give her office a call today at (573) 875-4877.