Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) in Lake Orion, Michigan

What is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)?

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a hands-on technique used by Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) to address pain and promote overall wellness. By using gentle pressure and manipulation of muscles, joints, and soft tissues, OMT encourages the body’s natural ability to heal itself. This holistic approach ensures proper alignment and balance, which helps improve bodily function and alleviate pain.

OMT is versatile and can be applied to a wide variety of conditions. While many people seek OMT for back pain, it can also be used to treat conditions like asthma, digestive issues, headaches, and more.

Who Can Benefit from OMT?

OMT is beneficial for individuals of all ages, from infants to older adults. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or managing pregnancy-related discomfort, OMT offers a non-invasive solution that focuses on treating the whole person.

Pregnant women often seek OMT for relief from common issues such as back pain, insomnia, and swelling. Infants with colic and young children experiencing various physical challenges can also benefit from OMT.

However, OMT is not for everyone. People with conditions like osteoporosis, bone cancer, or joint issues should consult their DO before undergoing treatment to ensure it is safe for their specific health concerns.

What Makes a DO Unique?

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are fully licensed physicians who take a holistic approach to care, focusing on how the body, mind, and spirit are interconnected. In addition to traditional medical training, DOs receive specialized training in the musculoskeletal system, giving them the unique ability to perform OMT as part of their patient care.

DOs don’t just treat symptoms—they look at the whole person to understand what might be causing health issues. They consider factors like your activity level, diet, mental and physical health, and even your stress levels when developing a treatment plan that supports your overall well-being.

Conditions Treated with OMT

OMT is effective for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Musculoskeletal issues: Back and neck pain, joint problems, carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Respiratory issues: Asthma, sinus infections.
• Digestive problems: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation.
• Chronic pain: Fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis.
• Pregnancy-related discomfort: Sciatica, swelling, insomnia.
• Sports and repetitive stress injuries.

By restoring balance and alignment, OMT improves circulation and nerve function, which enhances the health of organs and promotes healing.

What to Expect During OMT

Before starting treatment, your DO will discuss your symptoms and lifestyle habits, such as your diet, exercise, and sleep patterns. They may also perform a physical exam and, if necessary, order imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.

During the treatment session, your DO will gently manipulate your muscles and joints to correct structural imbalances. You may be asked to sit, lie down, or move into specific positions while your DO applies pressure to specific areas. Techniques can vary, from slow and steady movements to quick adjustments, but the process should never be painful. If you feel discomfort, inform your DO immediately.

What Happens After OMT?

After a session, it's common to feel some mild soreness or fatigue, which usually subsides within a day or two. To support your recovery and optimize the benefits of OMT:

• Stay hydrated: This helps flush out toxins from your muscles.
• Go for a light walk: Encourages proper alignment after treatment.
• Rest: Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.

Benefits of OMT

OMT offers a wide range of health benefits beyond pain relief. It helps:

• Improve circulation and promote healing.
• Restore balance and alignment in muscles, joints, and tissues.
• Enhance overall body function, allowing systems like the digestive, nervous, and immune systems to work more effectively.
• Relieve joint stiffness, improve mobility, and soothe tight muscles.

OMT’s holistic approach helps prevent future health issues by optimizing how your body works as a unified system.

Is OMT Safe?

Yes, OMT is a safe and effective treatment with minimal risks. Most people experience no serious side effects. However, if soreness persists for more than a few days or if you experience pain after treatment, contact your DO.

Get Back to Life After OMT

You can usually resume your normal activities within a day or two after OMT. While mild soreness is normal, pain should not occur. If you’re starting a new exercise routine or making lifestyle changes, consult with your DO to ensure you’re on the right path.

At Still Waters Osteopathy, Dr. Ryan Christensen and his team are committed to helping you achieve your optimal health through OMT and holistic care. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain or looking to improve your overall well-being, our personalized approach ensures that your body can function at its best.

For those in Lake Orion and the surrounding areas, Still Waters Osteopathy offers a proven, compassionate approach to managing chronic fatigue and related health issues. Take the first step toward better health with our expert care. Contact us today!

Expert Osteopathic Care in Your Community

At Still Waters Osteopathy, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality osteopathic care to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. Our practice, led by the highly experienced Dr. Ryan, offers personalized treatments designed to address a wide range of health issues and improve your overall well-being. His holistic approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of your pain and discomfort, rather than merely treating the symptoms.

Meet Dr. Ryan, DO

Dr. Ryan Christensen, DO, is a board-certified osteopathic physician specializing in Traditional Osteopathy, Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, and Integrative Medicine. Initially skeptical of osteopathy as a medical student, he has since devoted his career to the field. Dr. Christensen completed a dual residency in Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine at McLaren Oakland Hospital and participated in the TIPS Health Policy Fellowship. He focuses on the intersection of social justice, holistic health, and hands-on medicine.

Dr. Christensen has held significant roles such as Chief Resident at McLaren Oakland, primary care provider in Metro Detroit, and Family Medicine Residency Director at Authority Health. He has also served as president of the Oakland County and Macomb County Osteopathic Medical Associations and is active in the Michigan Osteopathic Association. Additionally, he has contributed to the "Osteopathic Family Physician" journal as an editorial board member.

Our Services

At Still Waters Osteopathy, we offer a comprehensive range of osteopathic services tailored to meet your specific needs. Our offerings include Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), utilizing gentle, hands-on techniques to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance your body’s natural healing processes. We specialize in Cranial Osteopathy, which focuses on the subtle movements of the cranial bones and their impact on the central nervous system. For athletes, our Sports Injury Management provides thorough care to prevent injuries, enhance performance, and support rapid recovery. Our Chronic Pain Management services deliver personalized treatment plans to address and alleviate conditions such as back, neck, and joint pain. Additionally, our Pediatric Osteopathy offers gentle and effective treatments for infants and children to address issues like colic, sleep disturbances, and developmental concerns. Notably, Still Waters Osteopathy is the only licensed practitioner in Michigan authorized to practice The Perrin Technique, a specialized method aimed at diagnosing and treating chronic fatigue and related conditions.