What is a D.O.?

D.O. stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. In the United States, there are two routes to becoming a physician - MD or DO. While these two sets of thought and schooling were originially very distinct, they now cover the same material, students and residents train side-by-side, and DOs are qualified to take all of the same licensing and board exams as MDs. In addition, you can find DOs in every medical specialty that exists, including all surgical specialties. Today, the primary difference is that DO students are taught osteopathic manipulative medicine in school, but truthfully, it is very hard to tell who is who! 

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What is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine?

Osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) consists of a wide variety of manual manipulation techniques that are largely painless and extremely gentle. These techniques are used to improve joint motion, muscle tone, connective tissue strain, and even mental/emotional wellness and organ function by addressing the autonomic nervous system. While any DO-trained physician can utilize OMM, those who specialize in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (ONMM), such as Dr. Barr, have undergone additional years of training in OMM specifically. 

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How is OMM different than physical therapy, chiropractic, or massage?
The most important differentiation is that ONMM specialists are physicians with complete medical training who share all the same rights and responsibilities of any other medical doctor, to include ordering special tests, imaging, laboratory testing, and medications when indicated. Otherwise, while OMM may use some types of manipulative methods similar to chiropractic, physical therapy, and massage, we have many additional types of hands-on treatment not used by these other professionals and are generally far gentler to focus on very small changes in tissue. ONMM specialists are trained to look at the whole picture, which means treatments will focus on joint motion, muscle tone, connective tissue strain, nervous system activity, and the root cause of the problem. Most other manipulative approaches only address one or two of these.

I’m worried because I don’t like my joints popped!
Not a problem! While some OMM doctors may use HVLA (the treatment type that causes “popping”) it’s only one of many treatment options. Just mention that you don’t like it - we won’t do it!

How often will I need treatment?
Treatment frequency depends on the underlying problem, response to treatments, and patient activity at home. Patients who have underlying pathologies like arthritis, intervertebral disc bulges causing sciatica, and fibromyalgia are more likely to need treatment more frequently for a longer period of time. Conversely, patients with short-term problems such as a concussion, muscle strain, pain in pregnancy, or feeding problems in babies may only need one or two treatments. However, as a rule, there is no specific recommended schedule and need for further evaluation/treatment will be determined at each and every visit. The ultimate goal is always to give you the tools and knowledge to keep yourself mobile and feeling good at home so that your appointments are “as needed” only.

 

I have arthritis, bulging discs, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, old fractures, cancer, etc. Is OMM safe for me?
Yes, OMM is almost certainly safe for you. Because OMM treatments are so diverse, there is always a different or more gentle way to treat. As a physician, Dr. Barr understand the risks of your underlying concerns and will plan and treat accordingly. If there is any concern that OMM may not be safe for you at any point, we will first address the concern. If OMM is determined to be safe, we will make a joint decision with you on whether to proceed with OMM.

 

What if I don’t like to be touched?
That would not be a first! However, most patients are surprised to find that the professional touch of OMM does not bother them at all. If it does, we can adapt treatment to work around it. Of note, if your dislike for touch happens to be a result of trauma in the past, many patients find that OMM can be healing for them as the body and mind are reminded that not all touch is harmful.

 

Do you also use homeopathy and naturopathy?
While some OMM providers have a special interest in these topics and do extra learning about them, it is generally not part of the physician or ONMM specialty training process. Dr. Barr does not use these methods in her practice.

 

Is OMM covered by insurance?
Generaly yes, but it depends on your plan. Most insurance companies will cover at least a portion of your visit and treatment, but it is always recommended that you check with your insurance company for the most accurate details. RCO currently accepts Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield. You can check the "insurance" tab for more details. 

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Do you offer primary care or general health management services?

Rocket City Osteopathy does not offer primary care or general health management services. We specialize in evaluating and treating your complaints from an osteopathic point of view. Our patients should continue to have a primary care physician in addition to our care. 

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