What is a DO?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)?
A Doctor of Osteopathy, or DO, is a medical professional who is trained in osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes a whole-person approach to healthcare and includes osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) in addition to traditional medical practices.
How does the training of a DO differ from that of a Medical Doctor (MD)?
While both DOs and MDs undergo similar medical training, DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, focusing on the musculoskeletal system to promote overall health.
What is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)?
OMT is a hands-on approach used by DOs to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. It involves techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system.
Can DOs prescribe medication and perform surgeries like MDs?
Yes, DOs have the same medical privileges as MDs. They can prescribe medication, perform surgeries, and practice in all medical specialties.
Do DOs only focus on musculoskeletal issues?
No, while DOs have a strong emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, they are trained to treat the entire body and address a wide range of medical conditions, just like MDs.
Are DOs recognized and licensed like MDs?
Yes, DOs undergo similar licensing and certification processes as MDs and are recognized as fully licensed physicians.
Is there a difference in the approach to patient care between DOs and MDs?
DOs often emphasize preventive care and a holistic approach to patient health, considering the interconnection of the body's systems. However, both DOs and MDs are committed to providing comprehensive medical care.
Can I choose a DO as my primary care physician?
Yes, DOs can serve as primary care physicians, specialists, or in various other medical roles. The choice between a DO and an MD often depends on personal preference and the specific healthcare needs of the patient.
Are there specific conditions for which OMT is particularly effective?
OMT may be used to complement conventional treatments for conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, migraines, and certain respiratory issues. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition.
Adults
Primary Care
Musculoskeletal Issues
Pain Management
Sports Injuries
Preventive Medicine
Asthma
Digestive Disorders
Women's Health
Men’s Health
Cardiovascular Health
Holistic Approach
Seniors
Primary Care
Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Joint Pain
Mobility
Memory Loss
Loss of Bladder/Bowel Control
Effects of Aging
COPD
Digestive Disorders
Rehabilitation from Surgery
Cardiovascular Health
Pediatrics
Colic
Feeding difficulties
Cranial asymmetry or plagiocephaly
Reflux
Ear infections
Sleep disturbances
Muscle tightness or stiffness
Developmental concerns
Respiratory issues
Why use a pediatric DO?
We love kids! There is nothing more special to us than to be a part of your growing family.
Our approach is different than the traditional medical approach starting at birth. Allopathic Medical societies (M.D.s) fail to recognize the immense pressure forces and complex circumstances that effect both mother and child during the delivery process. Before and during the descent into the birth canal, the infant has several physical obstacles to overcome to achieve a healthy delivery. Even the most easy deliveries can cause compression of immature structures of the head, neck and brain.
Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy (O.M.T.), especially Cranial Osteopathy can be very helpful in rebalancing the body after this rough road. Dr. Bunsic routinely treats newborns with gentle O.M.T. therapies. Parents have been delighted at the decrease in colic, reflux, eating disorders, decrease in infections and improvements in mobility after treatments. We believe all infants benefit from Osteopathic Treatments soon after birth.
The integrative osteopathic approach we utilize was initially designed more than 150 years ago to treat sick children. Children are especially sensitive to prescription medication. This is why going to a medical practice that looks for natural healing options first can be very beneficial! Of course, medication has it’s place, and we do not hesitate to prescribe it when needed. However, so often there are better ways to treat children that are free of dangerous side effects and poorly understood long-term consequences.