Your body is an interconnected system of bones, muscles, nerves, and connective tissue. When one area is restricted or tense, other areas have to compensate. Osteopathic treatment, also known as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), uses gentle, hands-on techniques to help restore balance and motion.
At Suncoast Family Urgent Care & Wellness Center, our osteopathic providers look beyond the symptom to assess how your whole body is functioning.
What Is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)?
A DO is a fully licensed physician who, in addition to standard medical training, receives advanced education in:
- Musculoskeletal system anatomy and biomechanics
- Manual diagnosis and treatment techniques
This means they can prescribe medications, order tests, and perform procedures—plus use hands-on OMT to help improve function and relieve discomfort.
Conditions That May Benefit from OMT
Osteopathic treatment can be helpful for:
- Neck and back pain
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Muscle tension and strain
- Certain types of headaches
- Work- or posture-related discomfort
- Some pregnancy-related musculoskeletal issues (with appropriate techniques)
OMT can be used alone or combined with other therapies such as physical therapy, medications, acupuncture, and exercise.
What to Expect During an OMT Session
- History & Exam
Your provider will ask about your symptoms, previous injuries, activity level, and medical history, then perform a physical exam. - Assessment of Motion & Alignment
They will gently test how your joints and tissues move, checking for areas of restriction or asymmetry. - Hands-On Treatment
Techniques may include:- Soft tissue stretching and kneading
- Gentle joint articulation
- Muscle energy techniques (you gently contract against resistance)
- Very subtle, gentle adjustments
- Soft tissue stretching and kneading
- Aftercare & Recommendations
You may receive suggestions for stretches, posture changes, strengthening exercises, or follow-up treatments.
Many patients feel immediate relief, while others notice a gradual improvement in the days following treatment.
Q&A: Osteopathic Treatment at Suncoast Family Urgent Care & Wellness Center
Q: Is OMT the same as chiropractic care?
A: While there are similarities, OMT and chiropractic care come from different training pathways. DOs are fully licensed physicians, and OMT typically uses a broader range of gentle techniques, often focusing on soft tissues and functional movement as well as alignment.
Q: Will it hurt?
A: Most OMT is gentle and well tolerated. You may feel some mild discomfort when tight areas are worked on, similar to a deep stretch or massage. Temporary soreness afterward is possible.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: It varies. Acute issues might respond in one or two sessions, while chronic patterns may benefit from a series of visits and lifestyle changes.
Q: Is OMT safe for older adults or people with arthritis?
A: Yes, when techniques are adapted appropriately. We tailor treatment to your age, bone health, and medical conditions.
Q: Do I need a referral?
A: In most cases, you can schedule directly. If your insurance requires a referral, our staff will let you know.
Q: Can OMT replace medications or surgery?
A: Not always. OMT is often used as a complement to other medical treatments and, in some cases, may help reduce reliance on certain medications or delay invasive procedures—but this is decided on a case-by-case basis.
Contact Suncoast Family Urgent Care & Wellness Center
Phone: (941) 867-2560
Website: suncoastfamilywellness.com
Appointments: CLICK HERE
