Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine in Orthopedic Trauma: Mechanistic Insights, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics
Abstract
Orthopedic trauma remains a leading cause of disability worldwide, with complications such as delayed union, nonunion, infection, and postoperative pain, often prolonging recovery. A growing interest exists in integrating Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) into orthopedic rehabilitation as a holistic, hands-on approach to promote healing and functional recovery. This narrative review aims to summarize the current evidence on the therapeutic role of OMM in fracture healing and its potential to mitigate postoperative complications. Relevant clinical and mechanistic literature examining OMM’s effects on bone healing, circulation, lymphatic flow, and immune modulation was narratively synthesized. Findings from small-scale trials, case reports, and meta-analyses suggest that OMM may support postoperative recovery through improvements in blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and oxygen delivery to healing tissues. Mechanistic evidence supports OMM’s potential to influence inflammatory cytokines, stimulate angiogenesis, and modulate the autonomic nervous system, which are fundamental biological processes involved in bone repair and regeneration. Although promising, the current literature is limited by small sample sizes, inconsistent protocols, and a lack of large randomized controlled trials specific to orthopedic trauma. Overall, OMM may represent a safe, patient-centered, and potentially effective adjunct to traditional orthopedic management. Future research should aim to establish standardized treatment protocols, quantify long-term outcomes, and further define the role of OMM within multidisciplinary orthopedic trauma rehabilitation.
DOI
10.70709/3w5uzbikc
Publication Date
Summer 9-28-2026
Keywords
Osteopathic manipulative medicine, osteopathic manipulative treatment, orthopedic trauma, fracture healing, postoperative recovery, musculoskeletal rehabilitation
ISSN
2996-1742
Recommended Citation
Ngo AL, Ho T, Tadakamalla R, Nguyen UT, Serfin J. Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine in Orthopedic Trauma: Mechanistic Insights, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions. Journal of the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics. 2026; X(2). doi: 10.70709/3w5uzbikc.
