The public is invited to experience first-hand the benefits of osteopathic medicine at Des Moines University’s OMM Community Night on May 13, from 6 to 9 p.m.
In the Student Education Center, 3300 Grand Avenue, D.O. students will provide free full-body structural and muscular assessments and, if necessary, manual treatments, part of osteopathic manual medicine (OMM), as well as information about the school and refreshments.
“Osteopathic manual medicine is a hands-on approach to healthcare. Through assessment of the musculoskeletal system, osteopathic physicians are able to draw a clear picture of how the patient’s health is being compromised. They can then realign the body so it can regain balance and heal,” explained, Erin Kraemer, D.O. student from the class of 2013 and one of the organizers.
This event is being organized by a student club and will include at least 50 student volunteers. The event will be held in the OMM lab where students train.
Supervising physician G. Bradley Klock, D.O., said, “It is such a privilege to open our school to the community and educate Des Moines on the importance and effectiveness of osteopathic medicine. Our goal is to have one-on-one time in an informal setting to answer questions and demonstrate the different styles of hands-on osteopathic treatment.”
This chance to experience OMM is free and open to all ages. Des Moines University has provided free OMM treatments at the Iowa State Fair and at previous community nights as well as at the end of local athletic events. It is always hugely popular.
D.O.s practice a ‘whole body’ approach to medicine, recognizing the body as an integrated unit. Osteopathic manual medicine is a unique tool that differentiates D.O.s from other health care providers. These doctors use their hands to diagnose injury and illness, identify structural problems and facilitate the body’s healing. By combining all other medical procedures with OMM, these physicians offer their patients the most comprehensive health care available today.
To find out more, call 515.271.1722 or visit www.dmu.edu. The website also includes a map and directions to campus.
• Osteopathic medicine embraces a holistic philosophy, considering the body as a unit of interrelated systems that work together to ensure good health.
• The hallmarks of the osteopathic profession are the philosophy of treating the patient as a whole and understanding that the body has an innate capacity to heal itself.
What is a doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.)?
• D.O.s are fully trained physicians licensed to prescribe medication and perform surgery.
• D.O.s are trained to use OMM as a tool in diagnosing and treating patients, in addition to prescribing medication and performing surgery.
• D.O.s focus on the musculoskeletal system. This interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones makes up about two-thirds of the body’s structure and plays a critical role in its ability to function.
• 60% of all D.O.s practice in general practice, internal medicine, obstetrics/gynecology and pediatrics.
• D.O.s focus on preventive health care.
