Overview

What Is Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy?

Osteopathic manipulative therapy, usually shortened to OMT, is a system of hands-on techniques used to alleviate pain and correct structural changes in the body. Doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO) like Dr. Neal Pollack of Neurology & Pain Treatment Center use their hands to evaluate and treat areas in pain or discomfort. OMT is a manual medicine most often used to relieve muscle and joint pain. This technique also helps improve blood flow, open energy pathways, and regulate nervous system function for overall better health. This therapy acts an alternative to taking painkillers or undergoing surgery.

Diagnosis for OMT Treatment

Before you start osteopathic manipulative therapy, the first step to pain relief is diagnosing the true source of your pain. A personal consultation with Dr. Pollack will lead to a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. For some patients, OMT may not be recommended. Fortunately, the Neurology & Pain Treatment Center offers many types of treatment including prolotherapy, Botox injections, and spinal decompression to help our patients put an end to their chronic pain.

Types of OMT Techniques

  • Counterstrain technique – Joints and muscles are moved in the opposite direction of the pain in order to equalize the strain
  • Muscle energy technique (MET) – The muscles are moved in a specific way to apply counterforces to the painful area
  • Soft tissue technique – Primarily used to apply pressure safely around the spine
  • Thrust or high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) technique – A high velocity force is applied directly to the nerves and tissues at the source of pain

The technique used will depend on your specific pain problem. Patients may experience some soreness after their osteopathic manipulative therapy sessions.

OMT Is Commonly Used to Treat Muscle Pain in the Following Areas: 

  • Neck
  • Shoulder
  • Back
  • Hip

OMT Has Also Helped Some Patients with Non-pain Issues:

OMT may help other problems throughout the body, depending on diagnosis. Since osteopathic therapy provides a full body treatment, the technique has also helped some patients with non-pain issues, including:

  • Asthma
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Migraines
  • Skin conditions
  • Sinus disorders
  • TMJ

Our personalized wellness approach is what sets us apart with Pain Treatment Plans designed around each patient’s needs. Call us at 414-453-7780

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