DO (Doctor of Osteopathy)

According to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, nearly 20 percent of medical students in the United States are training to become a DO (Doctor of Osteopathy). While osteopathy was originally conceived as a holistic system of healing and wellness dealing specifically with the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, its evolution over the decades has brought it more into the medical mainstream, especially in the United States. Today, osteopathic manipulations (similar to chiropractic adjustments) are less emphasized by a modern practicing DO, whose training parallels that of the more familiar Medical Doctor (MD).

A Brief History of Osteopathic Medicine

After Andrew Still, a Kansas physician in the Union army during the Civil War, lost several family members to infectious disease in the 19th century, he became disillusioned with contemporary medicine. His search for new and better methods led to his conclusion that anatomical deviations – specifically of the musculoskeletal system – interfered with the free flow of blood and the “nerve force” in the body. Therefore, physical manipulation of the joints, muscles, and other anatomical components could “cure” maladies. His techniques grew in popularity until he founded the first educational institute devoted to teaching osteopathic philosophy. The American School of Osteopathy, in Kirksville, Mo., began as a two-room shack and grew over the decades into the A.T. Still University.

A few facts about osteopathic medicine:

• A DO must complete the same amount of training as an MD, with an additional 200 hours of training in osteopathic manipulation.
• A DO can choose any specialty, prescribe drugs, perform surgery, and practice anywhere in the U.S.
• The U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare granted federal recognition to osteopathic medicine in 1952.

When a DO Recommends Spine Surgery

Should a DO recommend spine surgery, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn whether a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed using endoscopic technology can help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain.