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Patient perception of osteopathic manipulative treatment in a hospitalized setting: a survey-based study
Matthew Pomykala1, Brian McElhinney, Bryan L Beck
1University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, PO Box 91, Biddeford Pool, ME 04006-0091, USA. mpomykala@mail.une.edu
Context:
Although many studies on the effects of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) have been published, few examine its role in treating hospitalized patients.
Objective:
To determine patient perception of receiving OMT while hospitalized.
Methods:
Patients were referred to receive OMT through a consultation service and were separated into four groups: medical, musculoskeletal, obstetric, or postsurgical. The same osteopathic physician treated each patient and used various OMT techniques as needed. High-velocity, low-amplitude was not used. Patient perceptions were assessed 24 hours after treatment using a 10-question survey. Main outcome measures included pain, need for pain medication, anxiety about hospitalization, and overall comfort level.
Results:
Of the 195 hospitalized patients who received OMT, 160 (82%) returned the survey. Of these patients, 43% reported a decreased need for pain medication, 74% indicated a decrease in pain, 90% had reduced anxiety, and 98% reported that OMT improved their overall comfort level. In addition, 94% of patients felt OMT was helpful for their recovery, and 98% would recommend OMT for other hospitalized patients.
Conclusion:
Osteopathic manipulative treatment may be of tremendous benefit to hospitalized patients, regardless of their diagnoses.