What is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine?

Developed 130 years ago by physician A.T. Still, osteopathic medicine is one of the fastest growing healthcare professions in the United States and brings a unique philosophy to traditional medicine. With a strong emphasis on the inter-relationships of the body’s nerves, muscles, bones, and organs, doctors of osteopathic medicine, or D.O.’s, apply the philosophy of treating the whole person. D.O.’s place particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. D.O.’s believe that all of the body’s systems, including the nervous and musculoskeletal system, work together and that disturbances in one system may impact function elsewhere in the body.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine is to provide excellence and innovation in the education of osteopathic physicians. By providing an educational environment that is committed to osteopathic philosophy, principles and practice, we will establish our leadership in the transformation of osteopathic medical education. We maintain our commitment to address the health care needs of the people of Michigan, and, through research, to contribute to the biological, behavioral and clinical science knowledge base fundamental to osteopathic medical education and practice.