OSTEOPATHIC MANIPULATION

Osteopathic physicians are fully trained in traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment. They are also taught to perform osteopathic manipulation. This training begins in the first year of medical school and can continue throughout the physician's career.

 Osteopathic manipulation is based on the concept that the human body's structure is related to its function. If you can improve the structure, you can improve its function. This can potentially mean relief from many symptoms, including pain, as well as improvement in overall health.

 In preparation to perform osteopathic manipulation, the physician begins with a detailed evaluation of patient's neck and back. He can examine the muscles, joints and bones. His trained hands are trying to detect areas of tenderness, asymmetry, restricted range of motion, and abnormal muscle changes. He is searching for valuable clues that will help to provide reasons for pain and other complaints. In addition, when one area of the body is having a problem, it is capable of affecting other parts of the body. Therefore, the physician considers what could be wrong with the entire patient.

 Treatment is offered to patients who have abnormal findings, which the physician feels can be improved with osteopathic manipulation. Most osteopathic physicians perform treatment by using their hands. There are several methods of manipulation from which to choose. Specific criteria are used to select the method of treatment that will work best for the patient.

 In performing osteopathic manipulation, Dr. Malina prefers to use gentle techniques. He uses a light touch or pressure applied with his hands to the abnormal areas. The body has a wonderful ability to heal and often needs only a little help in order to make its own correction. This is an attractive feature for adults and children who are seeking relief from pain.

 In addition to his Osteopathic (D.O.) training, Dr. Malina has also completed an Allopathic (M.D.) family practice residency and Homeopathic (D.O(H)) training. Therefore, he brings a blend of training to the treatment table when he examines and treats patients.

 Common adult problems that Dr. Malina treats are headaches, neck and back pain, nonsurgical sports injuries, and injuries related to motor vehicle accidents. He also treats children and infants for a variety of problems.