There are two kinds of physicians qualified to be licensed for unlimited practice of medicine in all U.S. states.—those who have earned the M.D. degree and those who have earned the D.O.—doctor of osteopathic medicine—degree. Both are certified to practice every type or specialty of medicine.

Osteopathic physicians treat patients in offices and hospitals across the country and in the United States armed services. Whether they are family doctors or specialists, D.O.s use all the tools of modern medicine to prevent, detect, and treat disease, but they offer something extra.

Osteopathic Physicians are specially trained to give special attention to how the body’s nerves, muscles, bones, and organs work together to influence health. Through osteopathic manipulative treatment, they use their hands to diagnose illness and injury, relieve pain and discomfort, and assist the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

These extra touches distinguish the D.O.’s whole-person philosophy of medicine. It’s a century-old tradition of caring for people, not just treating symptoms.

The D.O. is not something else, but something more.