What is a DO in the medical field?

A DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is a fully licensed physician who receives additional training in the musculoskeletal system and a holistic approach to patient care. DOs are trained to consider the body as an integrated whole and often emphasize preventive medicine and lifestyle adjustments. They can practice in all medical specialties and perform surgeries, similar to MDs (Medical Doctors). The key difference lies in their philosophy of care, which incorporates osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to help diagnose and treat various conditions.