Osteopathic treatment exists in a shroud of mystery for some, but really it is a patient-centered, hands-on approach to treating the patient as a whole being, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, sometimes called Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy (OMT) is a form of manual medicine that is taught to all osteopathic physicians. Using a studied series of techniques involving gentle pressure, massage, heat therapy, stretching, and resistance to identify and treat your chronic pain at its root cause, restoring function and supporting your body’s natural healing ability. OMT has been shown to be an effective treatment for sufferers of migraines and low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and chronic pain associated with pregnancy.
A recent study looked at the effect of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment of migraines in 42 women. In the study, half of the women received five Osteopathic Manipulative Treatments over a 10-week period, while the other half of the women received no treatment. The women in the study who underwent Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy sessions reported a dramatic decrease in migraine pain. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients who underwent osteopathic treatment used far fewer drugs to control pain than the group that underwent standard medical care. Because of this, individuals with chronic pain who suffer from other health conditions can benefit from a reduction in pain medication and reduction in the risk for dangerous addiction or overdose. Another study involved the reasons that OMT is so effective. In using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look at the backs of patients with low back pain, researchers discovered that patients who received Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment showed improved alignment in the affected muscles. If you have endured failed surgeries, the side effects of countless pain medications, or you are still in pain after a hip or knee replacement, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment can help.
Dr. Shane Patterson is one of the only internal medicine physicians who primarily practices OMT. In his innovative practice at Osteopathic Health Care Associates, patients receive treatment and relief within as in a little as three visits—without drugs or surgery. Using palpation to conduct a thorough exam, Dr. Patterson employs OMT to restore proper alignment, function, and range-of-motion to the joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and other structures in the body. To learn more about the benefits of Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy in reducing or eliminating your pain, make an appointment at Osteopathic Health Care Associates with Dr. Shane Patterson by calling 586.221.2791, or complete the contact form in the sidebar to receive a return call from someone on our office staff.