FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE:
GENERAL OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE:
What type of training is needed to become an Osteopathic Physician?
DOs are fully licensed in all 50 states to practice the full spectrum of Medical and Surgical specialties. The training includes the completion of 4 years of undergraduate college and 4 years of postgraduate Osteopathic medical school. The Osteopathic medical school covers the same standard training in the basic sciences and clinical medicine as is found in an MD medical education program, however DO medical students also complete an additional 500 hours of training and study in anatomy and manual medicine.
Successful completion of this curriculum leads to a Doctor of Osteopathy degree (D.O.). After medical school, the DO pursues at least 3 years of Internship and Residency training in any of the medical or surgical specialties to earn board certification.
Successful completion of this curriculum leads to a Doctor of Osteopathy degree (D.O.). After medical school, the DO pursues at least 3 years of Internship and Residency training in any of the medical or surgical specialties to earn board certification.
What is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM)?
OMM involves the use of a hands-on approach to treating healthcare issues. One of the underlying principles involved is that when the structure of the body is in a normal state of balance and freedom of motion, it will also have an optimal ability to function normally. OMM addresses restrictions in all of the tissues, circulation, nerves, fluids, organs, and physiologic systems of the body.
There are a wide variety of modalities of OMM, which range from very gentle to more direct approaches, but all are applied with very little force. Whatever techniques are used, the Osteopath is looking for the Health within the patient and working to support the innate capacity for healing.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) refers to the manual modalities used in applying the principles of OMM. The term Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (NMM) refers to the Osteopathic board which certifies the DO in OMM.
After medical school, the DO can pursue Internship and Residency training in any of the medical or surgical specialties, as well as in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. After a 3 year NMM residency or a 1 year fellowship following another full residency such as Family Medicine, the DO can apply for Board Certification by the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. This process is one of the most comprehensive board exams in either the MD or DO profession, including written, oral, and practical examinations.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page
There are a wide variety of modalities of OMM, which range from very gentle to more direct approaches, but all are applied with very little force. Whatever techniques are used, the Osteopath is looking for the Health within the patient and working to support the innate capacity for healing.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) refers to the manual modalities used in applying the principles of OMM. The term Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (NMM) refers to the Osteopathic board which certifies the DO in OMM.
After medical school, the DO can pursue Internship and Residency training in any of the medical or surgical specialties, as well as in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. After a 3 year NMM residency or a 1 year fellowship following another full residency such as Family Medicine, the DO can apply for Board Certification by the American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. This process is one of the most comprehensive board exams in either the MD or DO profession, including written, oral, and practical examinations.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page
What conditions can Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine treat?
Osteopathic care addresses the full spectrum of a patient’s healthcare concerns. This means that OMM is intended to be used as an integral part of the Osteopathic physician’s treatment program in the management of any healthcare issue. These may include chronic ear infections, Irritable Bowel Disease, high blood pressure, headaches, depression, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, asthma, and all issues related to care of pregnant women and newborns.
OMM can often play a significant role in helping a patient to achieve an optimal state of healing. In many situations, OMM is an important factor in a patient’s healing process. Sometimes, it is “the” crucial intervention necessary for Healing.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page.
OMM can often play a significant role in helping a patient to achieve an optimal state of healing. In many situations, OMM is an important factor in a patient’s healing process. Sometimes, it is “the” crucial intervention necessary for Healing.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page.
What is Osteopathic Medicine in the Cranial Field?
Osteopathy in the Cranial Field was discovered by William Garner Sutherland, DO, a student of Andrew Taylor Still. The key concept is that there is, within each person, a presence Dr. Sutherland called the Breath of Life; something potent and Intelligent, which guides the living human mechanism within us.
Treatment in this model involves a gentle hands-on approach to free the areas of the body in which motion has become restricted, including the cranium and sacrum, to allow this innate healing presence to express its “Unerring Potency”.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy in the Cranial field page or visit the Osteopathic Cranial Academy or Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation websites.
Treatment in this model involves a gentle hands-on approach to free the areas of the body in which motion has become restricted, including the cranium and sacrum, to allow this innate healing presence to express its “Unerring Potency”.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy in the Cranial field page or visit the Osteopathic Cranial Academy or Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation websites.
What is Traditional Osteopathy or Biodynamics?
The Biodynamic View of Osteopathy in the Cranial Field, now called Traditional Osteopathy, was developed by James Jealous, DO. This model is based upon the principle that the forces of growth and development, as well as those of healing, originate in the forces of embryologic development. These forces continue to be present throughout the lifetime. This insight opens the door for the osteopathic physician to more easily recognize and perceive the living mechanism and to more fully cooperate with its intention in the moment. These treatments also involve a gentle approach which respects the fact that treatment is the prerogative of a perfect and loving Intelligence within the patient.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Biodynamics page.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Biodynamics page.
What is the difference between a DO and an MD?
Osteopathic training includes the study of all branches of medicine and surgery that are part of an MD’s training, as well as 500 hours of additional training in manual diagnosis and treatment. As of 2023, the number of DOs in the U.S. has surpassed 178,000. More than half of the nation’s DOs currently practice in primary care specialties such as family medicine, internal medicine and pediatrics, while the remainder provide care in specialties like emergency medicine, obstetrics & gynecology, surgery, and many more. The medical school with the largest number of alumni currently practicing at Maine Medical Center is UNECOM, Maine's DO school and the only medical school in Maine.
Although all DO’s are trained to use Osteopathic Diagnosis and Treatment, they can also choose to specialize in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine for which Board Certification became available in 1990. For specialists in OMM, advanced residency training and continuing education are offered by various organizations within the profession.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page.
Although all DO’s are trained to use Osteopathic Diagnosis and Treatment, they can also choose to specialize in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine for which Board Certification became available in 1990. For specialists in OMM, advanced residency training and continuing education are offered by various organizations within the profession.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see the Osteopathy page.
What is the difference between a DO and a Chiropractor?
The primary differences between Osteopathic physicians and Chiropractors are their level of training, the scope of their practices, and their approach to treatments. A chiropractor is not a licensed physician and has not completed residency training in a hospital. Chiropractors are required to see 320 patients during their training. Osteopathic physicians are licensed physicians who complete at least 3 years of residency training in and out of the hospital, for at least 12,000 hours of patient care.
The scope of chiropractic practice is defined by statute as “including the diagnosing and locating of misaligned or displaced vertebrae and, through manual manipulation and adjustment of the spine and other skeletal structures, treating disorders of the human body. The practice of chiropractic does not include the use of drugs or surgery, or the practice of osteopathy, obstetrics, or any other branch of medicine”. Chiropractic is primarily concerned with normalizing the alignment of the spine to influence the relationship between the spinal column and the nervous system. The Chiropractor does an assessment and develops a treatment plan at the first visit and then executes the same treatment on follow up visits which can be multiple times a week for several weeks.
Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine is based upon the principle that the human body possesses self healing/self regulating mechanisms that are the source of true healing. The focus in treatment, therefore, goes beyond simple spinal alignment, to deal directly with the abnormal body physiology using an array of direct and indirect techniques. The Osteopath reevaluates the patient, diagnoses somatic dysfunctions, and develops a unique treatment plan at every single visit. Additionally due to the high potency of Osteopathic treatment, patients are seen less frequently with longer intervals between treatments to allow the body to heal itself.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see table below.
The scope of chiropractic practice is defined by statute as “including the diagnosing and locating of misaligned or displaced vertebrae and, through manual manipulation and adjustment of the spine and other skeletal structures, treating disorders of the human body. The practice of chiropractic does not include the use of drugs or surgery, or the practice of osteopathy, obstetrics, or any other branch of medicine”. Chiropractic is primarily concerned with normalizing the alignment of the spine to influence the relationship between the spinal column and the nervous system. The Chiropractor does an assessment and develops a treatment plan at the first visit and then executes the same treatment on follow up visits which can be multiple times a week for several weeks.
Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine is based upon the principle that the human body possesses self healing/self regulating mechanisms that are the source of true healing. The focus in treatment, therefore, goes beyond simple spinal alignment, to deal directly with the abnormal body physiology using an array of direct and indirect techniques. The Osteopath reevaluates the patient, diagnoses somatic dysfunctions, and develops a unique treatment plan at every single visit. Additionally due to the high potency of Osteopathic treatment, patients are seen less frequently with longer intervals between treatments to allow the body to heal itself.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see table below.
What is the difference between Cranial Osteopathy and Craniosacral Therapy?
The primary and most significant difference between the practice of Osteopathy in the Cranial Field and Craniosacral therapy is the level of training of the practitioner. William Garner Sutherland, DO, introduced his Cranial Concept in 1929. Dr. Sutherland saw Cranial Osteopathy as a modality of diagnosis and treatment to be provided by licensed physicians as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. As such, it is not merely a therapy, but an integral part of the physician’s overall management of the patient’s healthcare.
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is described as a “light touch therapy” that can be provided by a practitioner with as little as 8 days of training by the Upledger Institute.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see table below.
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is described as a “light touch therapy” that can be provided by a practitioner with as little as 8 days of training by the Upledger Institute.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please see table below.
TREATMENT:
If you would like to learn more about any of the following topics, please see the Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment and Osteopathy pages.
If you would like to learn more about any of the following topics, please see the Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment and Osteopathy pages.
DOES OSTEOPATHIC MANIPULATIVE MEDICINE HAVE A ROLE IN THE TREATMENT OF INFANTS, CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN, AND Seniors?
Osteopathic treatment is gentle, safe, and most importantly, effective. It is appropriate for all patients, including: newborns, infants, children, pregnant women, seniors, patients with debilitating illnesses, and those who have suffered significant trauma including recent surgery.
What will happen during initial and follow-up appointments?
Initial visits can last up to one hour and follow-up visits up to 40 minutes. After a thorough history is obtained, the patient receives an Osteopathic structural and functional examination. The patient is then usually treated while lying down and occasionally in a seated position. At times the patient may be asked to change positions or to participate in some way in the treatment process. Accommodations are made to make the patient as comfortable as possible.
What happens during an Osteopathic Treatment?
Treatment involves a gentle hands-on approach to free the areas of the body in which motion has become restricted. During the treatments, patients may sense a deep state of relaxation.
Since Osteopathy is a holistic science that recognizes the inter-relatedness of all body structures and systems, the physician may make contact with areas of the body that the patient does not associate with injury or pain. These may include the feet, tailbone, head, or any area which is revealed to be part of the Healing process.
Since Osteopathy is a holistic science that recognizes the inter-relatedness of all body structures and systems, the physician may make contact with areas of the body that the patient does not associate with injury or pain. These may include the feet, tailbone, head, or any area which is revealed to be part of the Healing process.
What should the patient expect after a treatment? ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS?
Typically, patients feel very relaxed and peaceful after a treatment. Occasionally patients experience one or two days of feeling tired or mildly sore. This is normal and can indicate that the treatment process is continuing. These symptoms typically are mild and respond easily to conservative measures such as heat, rest, and fluids. In the unlikely event that they are severe or persistent, it’s recommended that the patient contact the office or the covering physician.
ARE THERE ANY CONTRAINDICATIONS TO THE USE OF OSTEOPATHIC TREATMENT?
There are rare contraindications to the use of Osteopathic treatment, and the physician is knowledgable about choosing particular techniques and developing a treatment plan that is appropriate for the individual patient based upon his/her condition or preferences. Even patients who have had recent surgery or with serious illnesses or structural instabilities can be treated effectively and safely.
What should the patient do/not do after a treatment?
Because Osteopathic treatment alters the dynamics of tensions held by the tissues and fluids, it’s recommended that patients “take it easy” for the first two to three days after each treatment.
What should the patient wear to the appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. For modesty, pants are preferred. Please refrain from perfumes and strong fragrances.
Does the Osteopathic physician recommend therapeutic exercises?
Yes. Osteopathic physicians recognize the importance of therapeutic exercise in healing and commonly recommend home exercise programs, although each physician’s program may vary in its emphasis and features. Participating in an exercise program is often a crucial factor in a patient’s ability to realize their fullest healing potential. Osteopathic physicians may also refer to physical therapists to train patients in correct stretching and strengthening programs unique to their own physiology and medical condition.
Does the Osteopathic physician discuss nutrition and the use of natural supplements?
Proper nutrition is essential in allowing our systems to reach their full potential in growth and development, as well as in healing. Your osteopath may also recommend any of a variety of other healthcare modalities as part of the overall treatment plan, such as dietary changes, nutritional supplements, medicines, or therapeutic exercises.
When should I expect to feel better?
Response to treatment depends on many factors including age, complexity and chronicity of your problem, and other aspects of your health. Often problems that you have had for only a few days or weeks will resolve with one treatment, while more longstanding issues will respond more slowly. At each visit you will be re-evaluated and the treatment approach may vary depending on how you are responding. Most patients see a positive change within 3 treatments. If necessary, another treatment modality may be recommended in addition to OMT.
Office information If you would like to learn more about these topics, please see the About and Contact pages.
Does the office accept insurance?
No. You should bring a form of payment to your appointment. You will be given a receipt/superbill that you can submit to your private insurance for reimbursement. Unfortunately Medicare does not allow patients to be reimbursed when they see a physician who is out of network or opted out of Medicine. This includes patients with medicare supplement or advantage plans.
What are the office hours?
The usual office hours are 8:30am-4:00pm, Monday through Friday. Dr. Sharkey sees patients on Friday. Dr. Pierce does not perform OMT.
How do I contact the office?
Appointments may be scheduled by contacting the office at 207.847.9200. The website to access our Patient Portal (non urgent questions only) is Patient portal: https://21247.portal.athenahealth.com
How do I find the office?
From the South, take 295 North to the Yarmouth exit, #15. Take route 1 North. Turn Left at the 3rd traffic light onto Forest Falls Drive. Continue past the post office on to the end of the road; Office building and parking lot are your last left on the circle. We are the front, left corner office on the ground floor.
From the North, take 295 South to the Yarmouth exit, #17. Turn Right onto route 1 South. Turn Right at the 3rd traffic light onto Forest Falls Dr. Continue past the post office on to the end of the road; Office building and parking lot are your last left on the circle. We are the front, left corner office on the ground floor.
From the North, take 295 South to the Yarmouth exit, #17. Turn Right onto route 1 South. Turn Right at the 3rd traffic light onto Forest Falls Dr. Continue past the post office on to the end of the road; Office building and parking lot are your last left on the circle. We are the front, left corner office on the ground floor.
What do I do if I need the doctor when the office is closed?
The office closes for most recognized holidays and occasionally on non-holidays, due to lectures or conferences. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your local emergency room. If your need is urgent and you'd like to speak with our on call physician after hours: call 207.847.9200 for on call provider contact information. Calls are handled by Dr. Sharkey and Dr. Pierce on a rotating schedule. Alternatively, if your need is urgent but not an emergency you can go the local urgent care office.