Osteopathic medicine in the United States

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Osteopathic Medicine in the United States

Osteopathic Medicine in the United States is a branch of the medical profession that emphasizes a holistic approach to health care, where the focus is on the whole person rather than just treating specific symptoms or diseases. It is one of the two types of complete physician training in the United States, the other being Allopathic Medicine.

Pronunciation

Osteopathic Medicine: /ˌɒstiəˈpæθɪk ˈmɛdɪsɪn/

Etymology

The term "Osteopathic Medicine" comes from the Greek words "osteon" for bone and "pathos" for suffering, reflecting the early focus of this field on disorders related to the musculoskeletal system.

History

Osteopathic Medicine was founded in the late 19th century by Andrew Taylor Still, a physician who was dissatisfied with the effectiveness of conventional medicine at the time. He believed that many of the medicines used were harmful and that a more natural approach to healing was needed. This led to the development of a philosophy of medicine that emphasized the interrelationship of the body's nerves, muscles, bones, and organs, and the body's innate ability to heal itself.

Practice

Osteopathic physicians, or DOs, are fully licensed to prescribe medication and perform surgery. They are trained to consider the health of the whole person and use their hands to help diagnose injury and illness and encourage the body's natural tendency toward good health. They use a technique called OMT, a hands-on approach used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.

Education and Training

In the United States, becoming a DO requires graduation from a College of Osteopathic Medicine, which is a four-year program similar to allopathic medical schools but with additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine. This is followed by a residency program, which can range from three to seven years, depending on the specialty.

Related Terms

External links

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