Osteopathic Manual Medicine

What is Osteopathic manual medicine?

Osteopathic manual medicine (manipulation) is a treatment used most commonly for neck and back pain. It is comprised of a number of techniques including massage, mobilization movements, and high velocity low amplitude thrusts. The purpose of these techniques is to reduce pain and increase mobility by releasing the affected areas from their restricted states so that they return to proper alignment. In trained hands it is a safe, effective and comfortable treatment.

How is manipulation done?

• Manipulation involves encouraging the "stiff" area of the spine to begin moving again, and comprises soft tissue massage, gentle mobilization movements (articulation), and firmer carefully controlled movements (high velocity low amplitude thrusts - HVT's) which stretch the stiff part often accompanied by a series of "clicks" or "pops".
• Each "pop" or "click" represents a spinal facet joint being released from its restricted state. This is similar to clicking your knuckles. These maneuvers often result in a very rapid reduction in spinal muscle spasm and pain, accompanied by a noticeable increase in the range of spinal movements. Manipulation combined with regular specific exercises seem to be the most successful at maintaining the mobility of a previously stiff area.
• For those who cannot relax, and where HVT manipulation is considered to be safe, intravenous sedation can be used. This may help both the patient and the therapist to achieve success.
• One would expect to see at least 75% improvement in symptoms with 3-5 treatments.
  

What does osteopathic manual medicine treat?

For decades, osteopaths have helped patients avoid back and knee surgery as well as relieve a whole host of common medical problems that appeared resistant to medication.

• Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Low Back Pain
• Scoliosis
• Tennis Elbow
• Sciatic Pain
• TMJ Dysfunction
• Frozen Shoulder
• Carpal Tunnel
• Knee Pain
• Trauma From Car Accidents Or Falls

Acute or Chronic Conditions

• Anxiety-Behavior Disorders
• Ear Infections
• Sinusitis-Cold
• Asthma
• Headaches-Migraines
• Fibromyalgia
• Gastroesophageal Reflux
• Vertigo-Dizziness

Who is a candidate for osteopathic manual medicine?

Anyone can receive OMM treatment. Pregnant women, children, adults, and senior citizens can all experience the benefits of OMM.

Some patients may be eligible for insurance coverage, depending on plan specifics.