Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine

Your Body Knows How to Heal. We Help It Remember.

What is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine?

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) is a hands-on approach to healthcare that treats the whole person, including body, mind, and spirit. Using approximately 40 specialized techniques, OMM addresses imbalances and restrictions in your musculoskeletal system that may be affecting your overall health.

At Riordan Clinic in Wichita and Overland Park, Kansas, Drew Rose, DO, uses osteopathic treatment to help your body restore its natural ability to self-regulate and self-heal.

The Osteopathic Approach

Founded by Dr. A.T. Still in 1874, osteopathy is built on four core principles:

  • You are a unit of body, mind, and spirit
  • Your body can self-regulate and self-heal
  • Structure and function are interrelated
  • Treatment is based on understanding these principles

Who Can Benefit from Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine?

This technique is something most co-learners can benefit from at some point in their lives. It can be for acute issues like neck or back pain, but OMM can also be instrumental in successfully managing chronic conditions.

Co-learners seek OMM for various reasons. Some are navigating complex health journeys and need structural support that coordinates seamlessly with their existing care teams. Others have been told their symptoms are normal or “all in their head” and are seeking validation that what they’re experiencing is real. Many are simply looking for proactive care to maintain optimal function and prevent issues before they start.

Whether you’re managing the physical toll of caregiving, seeking answers after years of unexplained symptoms, or prioritizing preventative structural maintenance, OMM addresses the interconnection between structure and function throughout your body.

What OMM does:

  • Addresses somatic dysfunctions in the musculoskeletal system
  • Mobilizes fluid throughout the body
  • Works with the nervous system to reduce sympathetic activation
  • Supports the body’s natural self-regulation
  • Treats the whole person, not isolated symptoms

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine does not treat, diagnose, or cure disease. It is a hands-on approach that addresses structural dysfunction to support overall health.

Wichita Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine vs Chiropractic MedicineOsteopathic Manipulative Medicine vs. Chiropractic Care

While chiropractic adjustments typically use direct, rapid adjustments focused primarily on the spine, osteopathic manipulative medicine takes a whole-body approach using a wider variety of techniques.

Osteopathic physicians who practice OMM treat the entire musculoskeletal system, along with organs, connective tissue, the nervous system, cranial-sacral fluid movement, the lymphatic system, and your body’s natural energetic field.

Our osteopathic treatment techniques include both direct methods that work into restrictions and indirect methods that work with your body’s natural ease. Indirect techniques minimize side effects by not activating your sympathetic nervous system.

What to Expect During Your OMM Journey

Appointment Details

Appointments typically last 1 hour, with 30 to 45 minutes of active treatment. Most treatments are performed while lying on your back, though some occur while on your stomach.

Some techniques are gentle and passive. You may not notice any movement, but that doesn’t mean treatment isn’t occurring.

Treatment Timeline

Most co-learners need 4 to 6 appointments to fully address a structural dysfunction. Initial visits at our Wichita or Overland Park, Kansas location are scheduled every 1 to 2 weeks, then appointments are gradually spaced further apart as you progress.

Dr. Drew, an osteopathic physician trained in bodywork therapy and structural medicine, works collaboratively with your existing care team to coordinate appointments and communicate about your care.

Your Role as Co-Learner

You’re an active participant in your healing journey. Dr. Drew will recommend stretches and exercises to prevent recurrence, movement practices to maintain results, and lifestyle modifications to support your body’s natural healing capacity.

The Body is 60% Fluid

Your body is approximately 60% fluid. Mobilizing this fluid can support circulation, bowel function, lymphatic flow, and fat transportation (vital for absorbing vitamins A, D, E, and K).

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine performed by Drew Rose DO

Beyond the Physical

Mind: Cranial Osteopathy

Dr. William Sutherland’s groundbreaking work revealed that cranial bones move in predictable patterns, with cerebrospinal fluid flowing like a tide from the brain down the spinal cord and back.

Cranial osteopathy addresses structural restrictions in the cranial mechanism. Co-learners have found this approach supportive during various health journeys.

Spirit: Biodynamic Osteopathy

Built on Dr. Rollin Becker’s “life-force-guided” model, biodynamic osteopathy recognizes that we are energetic beings. An immeasurable force, what Dr. Becker called “potency,” drives motion within the fluid of your body and organizes around stillness.

During treatment, Dr. Drew connects to your body’s specific biodynamics, bringing you back to energetic balance.

After Your Appointment

What You May Experience

Many co-learners feel deeply relaxed after treatment. If you’re managing a demanding schedule or carrying the weight of a diagnosis, this sense of calm can feel like the first deep breath you’ve taken in weeks.

You may also notice temporary soreness in treated areas (typically resolves within 1 to 2 days), fatigue as your body integrates the treatment, localized numbness or tingling, mild headache, feeling lightheaded when first standing up, or increased awareness of areas that need attention.

How to Support Your RecoveryOsteopathic Manipulative Medicine Care Riordan Clinic Overland Park Wichita

What helps:

  • Give yourself time to rest for the remainder of the day
  • Drink plenty of water and electrolytes for 1 to 2 days to help flush out toxins
  • Practice gentle stretching
  • Prioritize good sleep to support restoration
  • Eat whole foods
  • Use heat or ice if it feels good
  • Keep your body moving with light activity
  • Follow Dr. Drew’s specific recommendations

What to avoid:

  • Heavy lifting or intense workouts
  • Ignoring discomfort that feels unusual for you
  • Long stretches of sitting or standing still
  • Loading up on caffeine or alcohol right away
  • Skipping recommended follow-up appointments

When to Contact Us

Some co-learners experience a short period where symptoms feel more noticeable as the body adjusts. This usually settles within 24 to 48 hours.

Contact our office if sensations persist beyond 48 hours, symptoms worsen, or discomfort interferes with daily activities.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are severe.

The Riordan Clinic Difference

For over 50 years, Riordan Clinic has pioneered integrative medicine that works with conventional care, not against it. We understand that you’ve likely spent thousands on consultations and heard everything from “your tests are normal” to “there’s nothing more we can do.”

At Riordan Clinic, we listen. We investigate. We provide evidence-based protocols backed by 50+ years of research.

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine complements the Riordan Approach. We work with your conventional providers, not against them. Our MDs, DOs, and FABNOs coordinate care safely alongside chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatments. Comprehensive lab testing reveals your unique biochemistry, allowing us to optimize your internal environment. You become a true co-learner, taking charge of your own health.

Our MDs, DOs, NDs, and specialized practitioners bring evidence-based protocols and genuine hope to every appointment.

“To find health should be the object of the doctor. Anyone can find disease.”

— Dr. A.T. Still, founder of osteopathy

The journey to health doesn’t ignore disease. It seeks to define root causes and address them through various modalities, including OMM, in pursuit of Real Health.

Meet Drew Rose, DODr Drew Rose Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Riordan Clinic Wichita

Drew Rose, DO, brings specialized training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, cranial osteopathy, and biodynamic osteopathy to Riordan Clinic. With a deep understanding of the body’s innate healing capacity and advanced training in treating the whole person, Dr. Drew partners with co-learners on their journey to optimal health.

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?

Schedule Your First Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Appointment

New to Riordan Clinic? Schedule an initial consultation at our Wichita or Overland Park, Kansas location to discuss your health goals and determine if osteopathic treatment is right for you.

Current co-learner? Ask your provider about adding OMM to your treatment plan.

Download Resources

OMM Patient Handout

 

 

Meet Your Team

Drew Rose, DO

Clinical Medical Director

read bio

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What do co-learners seek OMM for?

    Co-learners explore OMM for various reasons related to structural dysfunction.

    Common reasons:
    - Musculoskeletal pain and tension
    - Supporting the body during demanding health journeys
    - Structural restrictions affecting daily function
    - Stress-related physical tension
    - Proactive structural maintenance

    What OMM addresses:
    - Somatic dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system
    - Fluid movement throughout the body
    - Nervous system balance
    - Structural restrictions that may affect overall function

    OMM does not treat, diagnose, or cure disease. It is a hands-on approach that addresses structural dysfunction.

  • How does OMM fit with the rest of my care at Riordan Clinic?

    OMM blends beautifully with the Riordan Clinic approach. We understand that you're managing complex medical timelines and can't afford wasted time or energy on administrative hurdles.

    By reviewing comprehensive labs beyond basic panels, your OMM provider and care team can individualize your treatment plan based on your unique biochemistry. This optimizes your internal environment, enabling your body to self-heal and self-regulate more effectively.

    Our integrated approach includes evidence-based protocols backed by 50+ years of research, comprehensive lab testing through our on-site Bio-Center Laboratory, nutritional support and supplementation from the Riordan Clinic Nutrient Store, and collaboration with your oncologist or other providers.

    We work with conventional medicine, not against it. If your provider has concerns, we provide clear communication on how our therapies are safe and will not interfere with your treatment schedule. Our goal is to address root causes and create the optimal environment for your body to heal itself.

  • What makes OMM at Riordan Clinic different?

    Drew Rose, DO, brings specialized training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (40+ recognized techniques), cranial osteopathy (treating brain, nervous system, mental health), and biodynamic osteopathy (addressing energetic balance).

    Combined with Riordan Clinic's 50+ years of integrative medicine expertise, comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, research-backed protocols, and collaborative, empowering philosophy, you receive truly holistic care that treats you as a whole person.

    "The pain on the right arm/shoulder/mid scapula is much better, but not gone... I'm working carefully with Yoga therapy exercises to revitalize and strengthen that whole area. I felt immeasurably better right after each treatment."
    — Riordan Clinic Co-Learner

  • What can I expect after an OMM appointment?

    Many co-learners feel deeply relaxed after their appointment. If you're managing a demanding schedule or carrying the weight of a diagnosis, this sense of calm can feel like the first deep breath you've taken in weeks.

    Some people notice temporary soreness or increased sensitivity in the treated areas. This is similar to how you might feel after a massage and is typically due to the mobilization of stagnant lymphatic fluid. These sensations often ease within a day or two.

    OMM may also make you more aware of areas of tension or patterns in your body that weren't as noticeable beforehand. This increased body awareness is a positive sign that you're becoming more connected to your body's signals.

  • What are common side effects?

    Just like after a massage, it's normal to experience mild soreness or stiffness in treated areas (typically resolves within 1 to 2 days), fatigue as your body integrates the treatment, localized numbness or tingling in areas that were worked on, mild headache, feeling lightheaded when first standing up, and increased awareness of tension patterns or areas needing attention.
    These are all normal responses as your body adjusts and your nervous system recalibrates.

  • How can I minimize any temporary discomfort?

    We encourage you to take the rest of the day to relax and avoid strenuous activity. Here are our top recommendations.

    What helps:
    - Give yourself permission to take it easy and rest
    - Drink plenty of water and electrolytes for 24 to 48 hours to help flush out toxins
    - Light stretching and walking are beneficial
    - Prioritize good sleep hygiene to support restoration
    - Use heat or ice, whichever feels most comfortable
    - Nourish your body with whole foods
    - Practice stretches and exercises your provider suggests

    What to avoid:
    - Heavy lifting or intense workouts for 24 hours
    - Ignoring what your body is telling you
    - Spending long stretches sitting or standing in one position
    - Caffeine and alcohol right away
    - Skipping your recommended check-in appointments

  • What if my symptoms feel more noticeable after the appointment?

    Some co-learners experience a short period where their symptoms feel more noticeable as the body adjusts. Think of it like reorganizing a cluttered closet. Sometimes things look messier before they look better.

    This usually settles within 24 to 48 hours as your body integrates the treatment.

    Contact us if sensations persist beyond 48 hours, if symptoms worsen rather than improve, or if discomfort interferes with your daily activities.

    Seek emergency care if symptoms are severe or concerning.

  • Why do some treatments feel so gentle?

    Certain OMM techniques are incredibly subtle and may not produce noticeable movement or sensation during treatment. This doesn't mean the treatment isn't working.

    Our OMM provider, Dr. Drew, often describes this process as becoming a "tuning fork," holding stillness, listening, and connecting to your body's specific biodynamics. Eventually, a connection is made to your body's natural healing force (what Dr. Becker called "potency").

    These gentle, indirect techniques are particularly effective because they work with your body's natural ease rather than against restrictions, don't activate your sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight response), allow your body to unwind patterns at its own pace, and minimize side effects.

  • How long does it take to see results?

    Most co-learners need 4 to 6 appointments to fully address a dysfunction. Your body didn't develop these patterns overnight, and sustainable healing takes time.

    Initial visits are scheduled every 1 to 2 weeks to build momentum. As you improve, appointments are gradually spaced further apart.

    Some co-learners notice improvements after their first session, while others experience more gradual changes. Your body's timeline is unique to you.

  • How can I get the most out of future OMM appointments?

    OMM tends to be most helpful when used alongside healthy habits that support your overall function.

    Your role as a co-learner is essential. We're partnering with you on your healing journey, and your active participation makes all the difference. This includes movement (human bodies require motion to stay healthy), practicing recommended stretches between appointments, building strength and maintaining flexibility, minimizing stressors while improving sleep, eating whole foods, and sharing what you're noticing with your provider.

    Many co-learners find that combining OMM with consistent self-care helps them feel better between visits and maintain results long-term.

Let’s Get Started! Request An Appointment:

To request an appointment, please fill out the form below. We will be in touch about appointment times and dates. We look forward to meeting you!