With the evolution of modern medical care, the role of osteopathic medicine has become increasingly important. Orthopedic surgeons (DOs) in the United States are both practitioners of scientific medicine and patient-centered caregivers, bringing revolutionary changes to today's medical system. Through their unique medical concepts and practice methods, they provide a full range of health services to many patients.
The two main streams of medicine in the United States are "Allopathic Medicine" and "Osteopathic Medicine." Since its founding in the late 19th century, osteopathic medicine has been committed to creating a holistic, inclusive perspective in medicine that does not just focus on the surface of a condition but explores the underlying causes. Although the educational processes of DOs and MDs have become increasingly similar over time, there are profound differences in their understanding of health.
"The bone body is a whole, and the body, mind and soul coexist and prosper together."
DOs receive the same level of medical training as MDs, including four years of medical school and subsequent residency training. In the United States, most orthopedic surgeons enter ACGME-accredited residency programs to obtain the credentials and professional experience necessary to practice. Another topic of concern to many is the frequency with which orthopedic surgeons use orthopedic manipulation therapy (OMT) in clinical practice. In fact, many DO physicians do not frequently use this technique in their daily practice.
The professional philosophy of DO physicians is to take a comprehensive approach. They are not only concerned with the treatment of disease, but also delve into the patient's overall health and quality of life. This perspective supports close collaboration between patients and physicians so that medical decisions are more closely aligned with patients' individual needs. This aligns deeply with the growing focus on patient-centered care.
“Combining scientific foundations and humanistic care, we can provide better care for patients.”
Although DO medicine is gradually being accepted in the United States, there are still many criticisms and doubts, such as in terms of education models and the effectiveness of orthopedic manipulation in clinical practice. Scholars point out that in the education of osteopathic medicine, there is a lack of sufficient evidence to support its effectiveness, and that many medical students become less interested in this traditional technique during their school years and focus on other cutting-edge treatment modalities.
The trend of medical education reform also affects the status of DO. A growing body of research shows that students need more evidence-based content in continuing education, rather than relying solely on traditional teaching methods. In addition, the future of osteopathic medicine still depends on how to apply the essence of its philosophy to the current medical system and increase its recognition in medical settings across the United States.
As a promising branch of medicine, osteopathic medicine still faces many challenges, from changes in the education system to recognition of its medical model. The future development of DO depends on how to balance tradition and innovation. So, can orthopedic medicine bring more important changes to patients in the future medical world?