Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) is a hands-on approach used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.
OMT involves applying skilled, controlled movements to the body’s tissues—skin, fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and organs—as well as the circulatory and lymphatic systems. By addressing imbalances in these areas, OMT improves function, alleviates pain, and promotes healing.
Osteopathic physicians, like Dr. Stiegler, focus on identifying the root causes of pain or dysfunction and using gentle, non-invasive techniques to restore balance. OMT is suitable for patients of all ages and can be adapted based on health status, pain level, and the nature of the injury or condition.
What is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)?
OMT is rooted in two primary techniques:
Direct Techniques: These involve applying gentle pressure directly into restrictive barriers within the body to help the tissues relax and realign. This approach can help release muscle tightness, improve joint mobility, and restore balance.
Indirect Techniques: These techniques involve moving away from restrictive barriers to encourage the body’s natural healing process. Indirect OMT is often used for patients in pain or those with acute conditions, as it can be gentler and less intense.
By tailoring these techniques to each patient’s specific condition, OMT can help relieve both acute and chronic pain, support injury recovery, and improve overall function.
How Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Works
Frequently Asked Questions
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OMT is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
Musculoskeletal Pain: Back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and joint dysfunction.
Chronic Conditions: Migraines, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Sports Injuries: Sprains, strains, and joint injuries.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Improving mobility and reducing scar tissue formation.
Stress and Tension: Anxiety, sleep disturbances, and general tension relief.
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OMM techniques include Muscle Energy, Myofascial Release, Counterstrain, Craniosacral Therapy, and High-Velocity Low-Amplitude (HVLA) adjustments. We will tailor the treatment to your individual needs.
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OMM is generally gentle and non-invasive. While you may feel slight discomfort during some techniques, especially in areas of tension or restriction, most patients report relief and improved mobility after treatment.
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Yes, OMM works well alongside other therapies, including physical therapy, medications, and integrative treatments like acupuncture or Reiki, to provide a comprehensive approach to your care.
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OMT offers several benefits, including:
Pain Relief: Effective for acute and chronic pain management without the use of medications.
Improved Mobility: Helps restore flexibility and range of motion, enabling you to move freely and comfortably.
Enhanced Circulation: Stimulates blood and lymphatic flow, which can speed up the healing process.
Holistic Healing: Addresses the body as a whole, supporting both physical and emotional well-being.
Non-Invasive: A gentle, drug-free alternative to more invasive treatments such as surgery or medications.
Meet Dr. Stiegler
Dr. Bridget Stiegler is a board-certified osteopathic physician with nearly 20 years of experience in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Care. Currently a fellow at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, she is expanding her expertise in complementary healing modalities. Dr. Stiegler is also a clinical professor at the University of Arizona and Vice President of the Arizona Academy of Osteopathy. After years of working in clinical settings, she decided to open True North Integrative Osteopathic Institute to provide a more holistic, personalized approach to care. Her mission is to improve quality of life and comfort for patients navigating serious illnesses through evidence-based, integrative care.