OSTEOPATHY
What is a DO?
Doctors of Osteopathy, or DOs, are fully licensed physicians who practice in all areas of medicine. DOs receive special training in anatomy and hands-on evaluation and treatment to address a variety of medical concerns. By combining this knowledge with the latest advances in medical technology, DOs offer patients the most comprehensive care available to detect, treat and prevent disease.
What is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment or OMT?
OMT is a hands-on system DOs use to diagnose illness and injury and treat the whole person. OMT strengthens the musculoskeletal framework and addresses the circulatory, organ, lymphatic and nervous systems to treat the root causes of the disorder or symptom. Osteopathic treatments go beyond spinal alignment, utilizing gentle techniques designed to address abnormal physiology and remove restrictions that prevent optimal health.
Is OMT like Chiropractic Manipulation?
Chiropractic adjustment is primarily concerned with normalizing the alignment of the spine to influence the relationship between the spinal column and the nervous system. Although Chiropractic techniques have expanded somewhat in recent years, the vast majority of chiropractic adjustments are still of the thrust variety and may not be well-tolerated by certain patients.
Which Conditions Benefit from OMT?
Adults
Back pain / Neck pain / Pelvic pain / Sciatica / Headaches / Dental Issues & TMJ / Sports injuries / Joint problems / Head injuries / Digestive issues: Acid reflux, Irritable bowel syndrome, Constipation / Fibromyalgia, autoimmune disorders /Trauma or injuries / Post-surgery recovery (should wait at least 2 weeks post-op)
Babies and Children
Difficulty feeding / Tongue tie / Colic / Torticollis (asymmetrical head/neck positions) / Plagiocephaly (asymmetrical flattening of the head) / Ear infections / Reflux / Injuries / Congenital issues
Pregnancy and Postpartum Issues
Sciatica / Back pain / Carpal tunnel syndrome / Mastitis
How many visits will I need to go to?
Each issue is unique and treatment plans vary depending on a variety of factors including the duration of symptoms, degree of trauma/injuries, and patient's overall health and lifestyle. Many patients with a recent or acute injury will be successfully treated within just one to three sessions, whereas older problems or chronic pain could require six or more sessions.
Is OMT covered by my insurance?
Patients can pay for visits with flexible spending accounts and receive an electronic copy of their invoice to submit. Some insurance policies will allow for out of network reimbursement (see FAQ page for further details on visit codes.)
Client Testimonials
"I've lived with chronic pain for over thirteen years and Natasha is the first doctor that made me feel like I had a partner in my care plan. Her OMT sessions became part of my regular maintenance and I'm convinced that her manipulations are responsible for the decline in pain flair-ups. Not only is she an excellent doctor, but she is empathetic and always fully present during my sessions with her. Having Natasha as part of my care team improved my overall quality of life. She's simply the best!" - Laura C
"Dr. Bernard is awesome. Super professional and super personable. She really listens. I went to her for help with post concussion migraine and tension headaches, including TMJ jaw and temple pain. She's a thoughtful and compassionate doctor and is very skilled with Botox injection. I'm so glad I found her!" - Eliza R
“Very helpful pain relief!! I went to Natasha for some foot pain I had been having for a long time--I went to other osteopaths who were never able to resolve the problem, and one appointment with Natasha and she fixed it! I have had no pain since! She also has a wonderful welcoming attitude and I feel she really understands the body and how to "unlock" areas of tension and old injuries so the body functions normally again. Highly recommend Natasha.” - Kerry, 47
