Osteopathic Approach

Case 1
Mary visited her D.O. complaining of a sharp pain in her side. The physician asked a series of questions about her pain: its intensity, onset and duration. They also discussed her medical history. The physician then ordered a series of tests to determine whether the pain was caused by disease (i.e. gallbladder or appendix). Tests revealed that it was not. Since the patient indicated that she worked in an office with a "surround style" desk, the D.O. considered that Mary might be suffering from postural/mechanical strain. Based upon his examination, interview with the patient and negative test results, the physician decided to employ OMT to relieve motion restrictions and muscle strain caused by improper sitting and movement. He also recommended changes in the set-up of her workstation to alleviate further pain.

Case 2
Michael’s symptoms included cough, congestion, fever and headache. Suspecting chronic sinusitis, his D.O. conducted an exam and ordered appropriate tests. When results confirmed the diagnosis, the physician prescribed an antibiotic to treat the infection. She also employed a variety of OMT techniques to promote sinus drainage and relieve pain related to the infection. Michael’s congestion was markedly reduced after just one OMT session. Upon completion of his antibiotic therapy two weeks later, his infection was eliminated.