Where to Get Help

Osteopathic Physicians (DO)

In the United States

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are fully licensed physicians — equivalent in scope to MDs. They can prescribe medications, perform surgery, and practice any medical specialty.

• DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)
• Many DOs practice identical to MDs and may not use manipulation regularly
• Board-certified in the same specialties as MDs

In Other Countries

Outside the US, "osteopaths" may not be physicians. Regulations vary:

• UK/Australia: Osteopaths are regulated manual therapists (not physicians), similar in scope to chiropractors
• Training and scope differ significantly from US DOs

If you're in the US, a DO is a medical doctor. If you're elsewhere, check your country's specific regulations for osteopaths.