Understanding 'DO' After a Doctor's Name: What It Means & What to Expect

The letters "DO" after a doctor's name stand for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. Osteopathic medicine is a holistic approach to patient care that emphasizes the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health. DOs are licensed to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states and are considered primary care physicians.

Osteopathic medical school is a four-year program that includes a strong emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, as well as nutrition, preventive medicine, and holistic patient care. DOs receive the same basic science and clinical training as MDs, but they also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM).

OMM is a hands-on technique that uses the doctor's hands to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. OMM is based on the belief that the body is a self-healing organism and that the musculoskeletal system plays a key role in overall health.

DOs use OMM to treat a variety of conditions, including:

* Back pain

* Neck pain

* Headaches

* Fibromyalgia

* Sports injuries

* TMJ

* Asthma

* Allergies

* Stress

* Anxiety

* Depression

Osteopathic medicine is a growing field, and DOs are becoming increasingly popular with patients. If you are looking for a primary care physician who takes a holistic approach to patient care, you may want to consider a DO.