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Osteopathic physicians, or DOs, can be seen for almost any condition, but a visit may be especially appropriate for musculoskeletal disorders, such as:

• carpal tunnel syndrome

• back pain

• joint pain

• neck pain

• sciatica

• sports injuries

DOs are trained in Osteopathic Manipulative Techniques (OMT)-manual techniques used primarily for diagnosing and treating these types of musculoskeletal problems.

While OMT is generally used for musculoskeletal problems, it's also used to relieve other conditions, including:

• arthritis

• migraines

• premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual pain

• allergies

• asthma

• sinus problems

• chronic fatigue syndrome

• digestive problems

• fibromyalgia

Osteopathic principles stress the body's own natural healing powers, the importance of the musculoskeletal system to the general well-being of the entire body and the interconnectedness of all the body's systems. It is a holistic approach, looking at the entire patient, not just the disorder. DOs believe that OMT loosens lymph node congestion and increases the circulation of natural antibodies, thus boosting the immune system. OMT may also relax muscles, relieve pain, reduce stress, promote circulation, improve posture, stimulate the nervous system and increase joint mobility. Studies are currently in progress to help explain how OMT works on these conditions. One possible explanation for some of OMT's benefits is that it increases circulation and the release of endorphins. Release of these endorphins could lead to an increased feeling of well-being and a higher tolerance for pain.

OMT has also been used to ease the pain of labor and delivery, in part by improving a woman's posture and by helping pregnant women use their body mechanics effectively during delivery to reduce the time they spend pushing. Moreover, OMT is drug-free, an important consideration for pregnant women.

A few DOs specialize in cranial sacral osteopathic techniques, in which OMT is applied specifically to the bones, membranes and ligaments of your skull with gentle, rhythmic pressure. It is often used for migraines and other forms of chronic pain. Cranial sacral therapy is not used as a primary treatment modality in bone cancer, bone or joint infection, a protruding disk, or spinal-fusion surgery.

After a physical exam, your DO will decide on and develop a course of treatment with you. In most cases, it may be similar to that provided by an MD. For instance, in the case of a respiratory infection, you might receive antibiotics. But you may also receive osteopathic manipulative techniques than can improve the function of your lungs and rib cage. Your DO may also suggest an exercise program and dietary changes that can improve your particular condition. As necessary, an osteopathic physician may refer you to a different osteopathic or allopathic specialist when you need surgical or specialty care.

Depending on your condition and your DO's initial approach to health care, he or she may use some of the many OMT techniques to treat you to relieve misalignments, improve joint mobility and treat other structural problems. These techniques include soft-tissue manipulation and chiropractic manipulation. The difference is that osteopathic medicine is a complete system of medicine, and if medications or additional medical services are needed to complement your treatment, your DO is either able to provide them to you or refer you to a specialist. Afterward, you may feel very relaxed. You may even experience a tingling sensation where the manipulations were performed. If you feel a little sore, don't worry, it can be a normal reaction. But if the pain lingers, talk to your DO.

Your DO may suggest various stretching exercises for you to do at home to further complement the OMT, and lifestyle changes to improve your condition long term.

If you are receiving OMT, you may need to make several visits. Otherwise, it's just like visiting any other primary health care professional -- you'll visit when you are ill and come in for a regular check-up. Your first visit may last up to an hour; subsequent ones will probably last about 20 minutes. The cost will be comparable with the cost of a visit to an MD; and insurance coverage is comparable as well.