What is a D.O.? D.O.s, or Doctors of Osteopathy, are fully trained and licensed physicians, who graduate from 4-year medical schools, complete postgraduate training programs, and must maintain their license through ongoing medical education. D.O.s practice in all specialties of medicine and surgery, and are licensed in all 50 states of the U.S.A., as well as Canada and Great Britain. Is a D.O. the same as a Chiropractor? No, D.O.s are not chiropractors (D.C.s). D.O.s apply knowledge of musculoskeletal medicine as part of the standard medical care system. They generally approach patient care from a medical standpoint, and use their distinctive osteopathic knowledge to enhance that care.  Their training is much more similar to that of an M.D. than to a Chiropractor. D.O.s attend 4-year osteopathic medical schools, hospital-based training programs, and post-graduate internships and residencies. D.O.s prescribe medicine and perform surgery, and practice alongside M.D.s in all specialties of medicine, and in the armed services. They perform osteopathic manipulative treatment within the context of a standard western medicine approach. The D.O. philosophy of treatment is “find it, fix it, and leave it alone.” Also D.O.s treat any and all bones and joints of the body, including in the cranium. Chiropractors attend 4-year chiropractic schools, do not train in hospitals, do not prescribe medication, and do not perform surgery. Their focus tends to be more centered on treating the spine to alleviate problems throughout the body. What are Dr. Kirsch’s treatments like? When people think of manipulation they usually think of the quick-thrust type, with popping and cracking involved. Dr. Kirsch will sometimes use this type, but usually he prefers the more gentle, slow movement and light-touch types of OMT. Dr. Kirsch believes that skeletal misalignments are only part of the problem in most cases. Just as important are the soft tissue strains and tensions, in the muscles and fascia of the body. The types of OMT he uses address all these issues. How does Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment work? OMT relaxes soft tissues and corrects skeletal misalignments. This in turn improves the circulation of fluids in the body, as well as the health of the nervous system. As the structure of the body improves, so does its function. What Can OMT Do? OMT can by very effective in treating musculoskeletal pain, spinal and joint difficulties, arthritis, digestive disorders, bladder and menstrual problems, and chronic pain and illness. See also the “Who Needs OMT?” page. How many treatments will I need? For most cases some change will be seen within 4-6 visits. If improvement is seen, then additional treatments may be indicated. If no change occurs, then further study or referrals may be needed. Simple cases may resolve in 1-2 visits, while chronic cases or severe injuries may take more than 10 visits to show any improvement. How long do the treatments take? During your first visit Dr. Kirsch will take a full history, do a physical exam, discuss the plan of treatment and answer your questions. The first treatment will be given as well, time permitting. The first visit is approximately one and a half hours long, including time to complete the necessary paperwork. Follow-up visits are 30 minutes long, and include a follow-up evaluation and treatment if indicated. Are there side-effects from the treatments? Responses to OMT vary. You may have some fatigue or soreness for 1-2 days after treatment. New or different complaints may arise as well, even in different parts of the body. Also, old injury areas can become sore again during the treatment process. Generally, uncomfortable treatment responses are more common when treating chronic problems. Are there any dos and don'ts with OMT? During your course of treatment with OMT, it is best to avoid other treatments unless they've been recommended by another health care provider. Also, avoid weight lifting, or high impact sports and exercises such as running, jogging, or contact sports. Stretching and breathing exercises may be recommended. Will my insurance pay for OMT? Most insurance will pay for OMT, but please check with your insurance carrier prior to your office visit to determine your coverage. You are responsible for your bill, and for knowing your insurance benefits. Payment is required in full at the time of service unless otherwise arranged. Which insurance plans does Dr. Kirsch accept? Dr. Kirsch accepts MVA Accident/Injury Liens and Workman's Compensation, and is a provider for: Admar, Aetna, AZ Foundation, AZ Medical Network, Beech Street, CCN, Humana, Integrated Health Plan, Lifewise, Medicare, Pacificare PPO, Schaller Anderson, United Healthcare, and USA.