Osteopathic manipulation is a physical treatment that is provided by some practitioners of osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine is a complete system of medicine that uses a wide variety of methods for diagnosing and treating all types of medical conditions.
In the US, osteopathic physicians (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, DO) are licensed physicians who are similar to physicians with the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine and Doctors of Medicine use the same diagnostic procedures and treatments. In addition to these approaches, osteopathic physicians are also trained to use manipulative techniques, such as spinal adjustments.
Is It Effective?
NatMed Pro rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.
- Back pain. Most research shows that osteopathic manipulation can moderately improve low back pain. Osteopathic manipulation seems to have a stronger effect in people with more severe pain.
- Neck pain. Most research shows that osteopathic manipulation seems to improve neck pain.
- Pain during pregnancy. Some research shows that osteopathic manipulation moderately reduces back pain during pregnancy and after childbirth.
- Cerebral palsy. Research in children with cerebral palsy shows that osteopathic manipulation does not seem to improve movement, function, sleep, pain, or quality of life.
There is interest in using osteopathic manipulation for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
Osteopathic manipulation is a physical medicine performed by osteopathic physicians. Like chiropractors, doctors of osteopathic medicine believe that problems with the muscles and bones (musculoskeletal system) can result in illness. So some osteopathic physicians use specific spinal manipulations for some conditions, especially back pain or neck pain. Osteopathic physicians also use conventional treatments such as medication, psychiatry, surgery, etc.
Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when it is used appropriately by a trained professional for a short time. Studies show that osteopathic manipulation does not seem to cause serious side effects.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when given appropriately by a trained professional and for a short time.
Children: Osteopathic manipulation is POSSIBLY SAFE when given appropriately by a trained professional and for a short time.
It is not known if this treatment interacts with any medicines. Before using this treatment, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
The appropriate or safe use of osteopathic medicine depends on several factors such as the condition being treated or the person administering the treatment. Be sure to seek and follow relevant directions from your physician or other healthcare professional before using this treatment.
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