Osteopathic medicine is a distinct and integral branch of healthcare in the United States, offering a holistic approach that emphasizes the interrelated unity of all body systems. At Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield, we recognize the value of this philosophy in providing comprehensive care for our young patients. By understanding the principles and practices of osteopathic medicine, you can better appreciate how it contributes to the overall well-being of your child.

The Origins and Philosophy of Osteopathic Medicine

In 1892, Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, MD, DO, established the first osteopathic medical school, laying the foundation for a unique approach to healthcare that continues to thrive today. Dissatisfied with the medical practices of his time, Dr. Still sought a more holistic way to treat patients. He believed that many 19th-century medicines were ineffective or even harmful. Driven by his commitment to better understanding health and disease, Dr. Still founded a new philosophy of medicine that emphasized the unity of the body, the importance of the musculoskeletal system, and the body’s innate ability to heal itself.

A Philosophy Rooted in Prevention and Wellness

Dr. Still's approach to medicine was revolutionary for its time. He introduced the concept of "wellness" long before it became a common term in healthcare. His philosophy was grounded in the idea that preventive care, proper nutrition, and physical fitness are essential components of good health. Unlike the conventional practices of his era, Dr. Still's osteopathic medicine focused on treating the whole person, rather than just addressing symptoms.

This holistic approach included a strong emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, which Dr. Still identified as a key element of overall health. He recognized that the body is capable of healing itself when it is in balance and functioning properly. To support this natural healing process, Dr. Still advocated for preventive medicine, which involved evaluating personal health risks—such as smoking, high blood pressure, and stress—and working with patients to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Osteopathic Medicine's Evolution

Osteopathic medicine has come a long way since Dr. Still first introduced his ideas. Today, osteopathic physicians (DOs) continue to build on his principles while incorporating modern medical advancements. DOs are fully licensed physicians who can prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and use the latest medical technology. However, they also bring something extra to the table: a holistic approach that considers the patient’s body, mind, and spirit.

One of the core practices in osteopathic medicine is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). This hands-on technique involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. By manipulating the musculoskeletal system, DOs can help improve circulation, relieve pain, and support the body's natural healing process. This approach is particularly effective in areas like sports medicine, where the focus on the musculoskeletal system, diet, exercise, and fitness plays a crucial role in patient care.

Modern-Day Osteopathic Medicine

Today, osteopathic physicians continue the tradition of bringing healthcare to underserved areas. Over half of all DOs practice in primary care fields such as pediatrics, general practice, obstetrics/gynecology, and internal medicine. Many DOs serve in small towns and rural areas, where they fill a critical need for family doctors.

In addition to serving in these communities, osteopathic physicians are also on the cutting edge of modern medicine. They combine today’s advanced medical technology with the principles of holistic care. DOs use their ears to listen carefully to their patients, their eyes to see their patients as whole individuals, and their hands to diagnose and treat injury and illness.

The Growing Influence of Osteopathic Medicine

The osteopathic medical profession has seen tremendous growth over the past few decades. According to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), there are now more than 121,000 DOs in the United States, with a combined total of over 151,300 osteopathic medical students and physicians. This represents a 63% growth in the profession over the past decade and nearly 300% growth over the last thirty years.

This surge in the number of DOs highlights the increasing recognition of osteopathic medicine's value in the healthcare landscape. As the field continues to expand, osteopathic physicians are poised to play an even greater role in shaping the future of medicine.

Practicing Osteopathic Medicine at Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are fully licensed physicians who are trained to practice the full scope of medicine. This includes prescribing medications, performing surgeries, and utilizing osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) as a unique tool for diagnosis and treatment. DOs integrate the most current scientific knowledge with a holistic approach to promote health, prevent disease, and treat various medical conditions.

Dr. Julie Hong, DO at Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield not only focuses on treating symptoms but also considers how different body systems work together. This comprehensive approach ensures that your child receives care that supports their overall health and well-being.

The Core Values of Osteopathic Medicine

The Tenets of Osteopathic Medicine encapsulate its core philosophy that: 

1. The body functions as a unified whole, encompassing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit.

2. The body possesses the inherent ability to self-regulate, heal, and maintain health.

3. There is a reciprocal relationship between structure and function within the body.

4. The foundation of effective treatment is in fully understanding body unity, regulation of self, and the link between structure and function.

The Role of Osteopathic Medicine in Pediatric Care

Osteopathic medicine plays a crucial role in pediatric care, particularly in primary care settings. At Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield, our DO is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide comprehensive care for children. This includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and the management of chronic conditions, as well as the use of OMM to address musculoskeletal issues that may affect your child's growth and development.

Osteopathic physicians are also trained to consider how various factors, such as nutrition, environment, and emotional well-being, can impact a child's health. By taking a holistic approach, the DO can provide care that supports your child's overall development, helping them to thrive in all aspects of life.

Education and Training in Osteopathic Medicine

Becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a rigorous and rewarding journey that involves years of dedicated study and hands-on training. As a parent seeking the best care for your child, it's essential to understand the extensive preparation that goes into becoming a DO, ensuring your pediatrician is well-equipped to provide holistic and preventive care.

Four Years of Academic Study

The path to becoming a DO begins with four years of academic study at an accredited osteopathic medical school. This curriculum focuses on preventive medicine and holistic patient care, emphasizing the body's natural ability to heal itself. During this time, future osteopathic physicians learn to treat patients as whole persons, considering the interconnection between body, mind, and spirit.

Hands-On Experience

After completing the academic portion of their education, DOs undergo a one-year internship, gaining practical experience in various medical fields, including family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, and surgery. This broad training ensures that DOs, even those who choose to specialize, are first and foremost trained as primary care physicians. Your pediatrician's ability to offer comprehensive care stems from this foundational experience.

Specialization and Residency

For those DOs who choose to specialize, additional training is required. Following the internship, many DOs enter residency programs in their chosen specialty, which typically lasts two to six years. This specialized training allows them to hone their skills in areas such as pediatrics, ensuring that they can provide the best possible care for your child.

When you choose Mansfield pediatricians who are DOs, you can trust that they have undergone extensive training to provide holistic, patient-centered care for your child.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach in Pediatric Care

At Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield, we believe that a holistic approach is essential for providing the best possible care for our young patients. Osteopathic medicine aligns with this belief, as it considers the whole child – body, mind, and spirit – in the diagnosis and treatment of illness. This approach allows our DOs to provide care that is not only effective but also compassionate and patient-centered.

By focusing on the whole child, our DOs can better understand the factors that may be contributing to their health issues. This understanding allows them to develop treatment plans that address the root causes of illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. As a result, your child receives care that is more comprehensive and more likely to lead to lasting health.

Conclusion: Why Choose Osteopathic Medicine for Your Child?

Choosing Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield for your child's healthcare means choosing a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to providing the best possible care. Our DOs bring a unique perspective to pediatric care, one that emphasizes the importance of the whole child and the interconnectedness of the body's systems.

Whether your child needs routine care or treatment for a specific condition, our osteopathic physicians are here to help. By combining the latest scientific knowledge with a holistic approach, we ensure that your child receives care that is comprehensive, compassionate, and effective.

Osteopathic medicine is more than just a method of treatment; it is a philosophy of care that prioritizes the health and well-being of your child. At Kidsville Pediatrics Mansfield, we are proud to offer this unique approach to pediatric care, helping your child achieve their best possible health.