What is Osteopathy?
An osteopath reasons from his knowledge of anatomy. He compares the work of the abnormal body with the normal body. – A.T. Still
What is an Osteopathic Doctor?
Like a medical doctor (MD), a doctor of osteopathy (DO) is a fully licensed physician trained in all aspects of western medicine and surgery. DO’s and MD’s receive the same training, from classroom work all the way through residency and specialty programs. Osteopathic physicians (DO’s) are fully licensed and have the same medical practice rights throughout the United States and in 44 countries abroad. Today, 1 in 4 graduating physicians in the U.S is an osteopath.
What is the difference between a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) and a Medical Doctor (M.D.)?
Osteopathic medicine is not a particular set of techniques. Rather, it is a philosophy. Osteopathic physicians recognize that all body systems function in unison and that a disturbance in one system may alter the function of another. DO’s are trained to recognize the interdependence of all parts of the human body, and acknowledge the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
While the vast majority of osteopathic physicians function exactly the same as an MD, working in primary care or various specialties such as surgery, neurology, or cardiology some choose to incorporate a more traditional osteopathic approach using a more traditional approach to patient care. This includes a more whole-patient approach and often includes hands-on manual treatment to affect all aspects of body anatomy and physiology. In this way the osteopathic approach allows us to get to the root cause of dis-ease.
Principals and Practices of Osteopathy
Whether you struggle with chronic pain or illness, recently suffered an injury, or want to enjoy a higher overall health, osteopathic medicine can help. Osteopathy is not just a set of techniques. Instead, it is a philosophy, an approach to health and the human body that when applied in medical practice can have a profound impact on a patients’ recovery.
The human body is always working to maintain a state of balance. The goal of osteopathic medicine is simply to assist in that process. It is a very hands-on approach that aims to bring a body that has been altered through stress, injury or disease into a more balanced state, thereby allowing the body’s self corrective forces to take over. In this way healing may occur naturally.
Dr. Nani maintains a very traditional osteopathic practice and uses a variety of treatment modalities, all within the osteopathic concept to bring about healing. Dr. Nani also regularly works with other providers as more complex patients often require a team effort. With this type of approach to healthcare it is not uncommon for even the most resistant and chronic conditions to improve.
“Medical practice must be inspired with soul and be filled with understanding and equipped with keen observation; these, together with accurate scientific knowledge are the indispensable requisites for proficient medical practice.”
Mainonides, 1135-1204