Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Lake Havasu and Kingman, AZ
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a form of alternative medicine. It is a hands-on approach used by osteopathic physicians (DOs) to help alleviate discomfort from illness, chronic pain, and injuries by manipulating bones, joints, and soft tissues to make structural changes that improve mobility and daily performance. Unlike massage therapy, which treats soft tissue, OMT addresses underlying structural issues to help patients relieve headaches, chronic pain, muscular tension, and more!
At Prima Medical Care, board-certified physician Michael Colonna, DO and nurse practitioner Katie Colonna, FNP are well-known for offering high-quality holistic therapies that improve their patients’ quality of life.
Contact our office or call (928) 302-3798 to make an appointment at our Kingman or Lake Havasu office to learn more.
Contents
About Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
When strained, the body’s intricate networks of muscles, soft tissues, and joints affect physical and emotional well-being. OMT can address several conditions for patients who struggle with chronic pain, mobility, or relaxation. During OMT, we apply gentle pressure and stretching techniques to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. In a recent study, 43% of hospitalized patients reported a decreased need for medication to help them manage pain after OMT. (1)
The Difference Between Chiropractors, Osteopaths, and Massage Therapists
Although the different specialties share techniques, chiropractors adjust muscles and joints (musculoskeletal system). They push on the area or vertebrae with their hands, whereas osteopaths use the limbs to make levered thrusts. Massage therapists focus on superficial and deep soft tissues to relieve muscle tension and improve well-being.
Benefits
Several benefits make OMT an attractive option, including:
- Improved mobility: Reducing muscle tension can improve your mobility, making it easier to participate in exercise.
- Medication-free therapy: We can address muscle tension and chronic pain without medications.
- Improved posture: You can enjoy improved comfort in your daily life as a result of improved posture.
- Stress relief: Many OMT patients can enjoy mental and physical benefits by addressing physical stress with OMT.
- Holistic approach: OMT is an integrative therapy that considers the complex network of muscles throughout the entire body.
- Customizable therapy: We can adjust the treatment to suit your needs.
Candidates
Suitable candidates for OMT are seeking a customizable treatment that can improve their well-being without medication. They lead a healthy lifestyle and are looking for medication-free therapy to help them manage ongoing conditions affecting their mobility or physical performance. OMT can help you find relief from:
- Chronic pain
- Mobility issues
- Muscle tension
- Sports injuries
OMT can also benefit patients with headaches. If you have a history of neurological or spinal conditions, we will need to know how to create an OMT treatment plan that suits your needs. Some OMT techniques can target and relax specific muscle groups.
If there are multiple areas you would like to treat, let us know during your consultation.
Consultation
During your consultation, we will ask about your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle. If you need a treatment series, we can create a personalized plan for your specific needs. Please come prepared with any questions you have. We can perform multiple OMT techniques in one appointment to address multiple concerns.
If you have a condition that causes you to bruise easily or a history of broken bones, please come prepared to discuss this with our team. OMT is a gentle therapy suitable for various conditions, and we can adjust the approach and pressure to meet your needs. We can also combine OMT with IV Hydration Infusions to fortify your body with essential vitamins and minerals to support your recovery.
To learn more about our additional services, see our treatment guide!
Preparation
The preparation process for OMT is simple. On the day of your treatment, you should stay hydrated and eat a light meal. You must also get adequate rest (7-8 hours each night) and arrive in comfortable clothing.
If this is your first time receiving OMT or you are seeking therapy to address a serious chronic condition, we may recommend that you schedule some downtime afterward to see how you feel. We can also schedule a telemedicine follow-up to monitor your progress. Everyone responds differently to OMT, and for serious chronic conditions, being gentle with your body and preparing to rest can support your well-being.
OMT Treatment Process
On the day of your treatment, you will need to arrive in comfortable clothing. Techniques range from a subtle touch to gentle pressures and stretching to precision thrust-style maneuvers. The treatment area is evaluated, and a history is taken to determine the best treatment. Areas can include the back, neck, hips, and shoulders. We can perform several different types of OMT, depending on your symptoms.
To learn more about additional OMT techniques to enhance your well-being, schedule a consultation at our office!
After Your Treatment
After your treatment, you may feel slightly sore because OMT manipulates your muscles to make structural adjustments that improve your well-being. To support your body afterward, you should get adequate rest (7-8 hours each night) and eat nutritious meals.
If you have questions after your treatment and want to remain in the comfort of your own home, we also offer telehealth appointments. Our team is here to support you every step of the way in your OMT experience. Please do not hesitate to reach out for support if you have any questions.
Results
After treatment, you can enjoy noticeable improvements in mobility. It also helps many patients address symptoms of chronic conditions, including lower back pain, neck pain, and some types of chronic pain. (3)
You may enjoy improved mobility, pain relief, and fewer migraines/headaches, depending on your treatment. Addressing joint issues can enhance your quality of life and daily function.
Chronic health issues can impact almost every aspect of your life, including your intimate relationships, work performance, and mental clarity. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us today to schedule this medication-free treatment that can help you find relief!
Primary Care
Whether you are seeking OMT for chronic conditions or you have other concerns you wish to address, primary care provides a regular point of contact with a specialized provider. Managing your health is easier when you have an ongoing relationship with your doctor, yet more than 100 million Americans do not have a primary care physician. (2) Through primary care, there are several ways you can receive support:
- Geriatrics: We offer specialized medical care for aging patients who need ongoing support.
- Pediatrics: With comprehensive screenings and vaccines, pediatric care aims to support the health of children and younger patients.
- Telehealth: If you cannot come into the office or prefer the convenience of virtual appointments, you can connect with us virtually to address any questions or concerns.
- Women’s Health: We offer specialized services, including well-women exams, breast and cervical screenings, contraception counseling, and more!
Cost of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
The cost of your treatments will depend on your specific treatment plan and whether or not you need additional treatments to meet your goals. We can also discuss incorporating your treatment into your primary care plan.
Do not hesitate to reach out when this simple treatment can help you address chronic muscle tension for lasting results.
OMT is an effective treatment that can potentially help patients improve their quality of life. Contact our office or call (928) 302-3798 to learn more about how OMT can help improve your well-being.
FAQ
Can OMT treat chronic pain?
OMT cannot treat chronic pain, but it can help you reduce your symptoms to improve your quality of life.
Is OMT the same as massage?
No. Although some techniques are similar, massage focuses on soft tissue, while OMT focuses on underlying structural issues.
Is OMT painful?
Some patients experience mild discomfort when their professional works out muscular tension, but most find the treatment comfortable.
How many OMT treatment sessions will I need?
The number of OMT treatment sessions you receive will depend on your specific condition. If you need a series of treatments, we can discuss the best plan for you during your consultation.
Can OMT replace conventional medicine?
Although OMT is not a conventional medicine replacement, it can complement other treatments.
How do I know if OMT is right for me?
If you are experiencing chronic pain or a structural issue affecting your posture or mobility, OMT is likely a good treatment option. During your consultation, we can help you determine the most effective treatment option for you.
References
- Pomykala M, McElhinney B, Beck BL, Carreiro JE. Patient perception of osteopathic manipulative treatment in a hospitalized setting: a survey-based study. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 2008;108(11):665-668. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19011230/
- Wang Y, Zheng J, Schneberk T, et al. What quantifies good primary care in the United States? A review of algorithms and metrics using real-world data. 2023;24(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-023-02080-y
- Bagagiolo D, Rosa D, Borrelli F. Efficacy and safety of osteopathic manipulative treatment: an overview of systematic reviews. BMJ Open. 2022;12(4):e053468. doi:https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053468