Patient perception of osteopathic manipulative treatment in a hospitalized setting: a survey-based study.

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.