A doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who practices medicine with a distinctive "whole-person" or holistic approach. DOs are trained to consider the patient's body, mind, and spirit as interconnected, emphasizing prevention and the body's natural ability to heal itself. They receive the same medical training as doctors of medicine (MDs), including four years of medical school and residency training, and they are licensed to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and practice in all medical specialties
. A key difference in DO training is additional education in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which involves hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by manipulating muscles, joints, and tissues. This approach reflects their focus on the musculoskeletal system as integral to overall health
. DOs often work in primary care but can specialize in any field of medicine. They aim to partner with patients to promote health and wellness, integrating conventional medical treatments with a holistic perspective that includes lifestyle and environmental factors
