Frequently asked questions
What is traditional Osteopathy?
Traditional Osteopathy is a hands-on approach to medicine developed by A.T. Still, MD, DO in the late 1800s. The osteopath uses a trained sense of touch to find where the body’s structure has lost healthy motion and works to restore it, which supports the body’s own capacity to heal.
What is a DO? How is that different from an MD?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who completes the same medical training as an MD, plus additional training in hands-on osteopathic diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Dubey is board certified in family medicine, fellowship trained in integrative medicine, and has pursued extensive post-graduate study of traditional Osteopathy.
How is this different from chiropractic?
The two fields share hands-on roots, and some patients have benefited from both. The main differences are training and style. A DO is a fully licensed physician with complete medical training in addition to osteopathic training. In style, chiropractic care tends to center on quick spinal adjustments at frequent visits. Traditional osteopathic treatment is slower and gentler, works with the whole body — muscles, fascia, and fluids as well as joints — and uses longer visits spaced weeks apart, with the aim of resolving the underlying pattern.
Is this different from craniosacral therapy?
They are related, but not the same. Craniosacral therapy was derived from cranial Osteopathy in the 1970s as a simplified form that could be taught outside of medical training, and it is most often practiced by massage or physical therapists. Cranial Osteopathy is the original discipline: it takes years of additional study, and at Stillwater it is practiced by a physician as one part of whole-body diagnosis and treatment rather than as a standalone technique. The touch can look similar from the outside; the training behind the hands and the scope of the work are the main differences.
What happens at a first visit?
A first visit is 90 minutes for teens and adults, and 60 minutes for infants and children. It begins with a thorough conversation about your history and what brings you in, followed by a hands-on structural examination and, in almost all cases, treatment at the same visit. You will leave with a clear sense of what was found and a recommended plan.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in; you stay fully clothed during treatment. If you have relevant imaging, test results, or a list of current medications, bring them along or send them ahead when you schedule.
Does treatment hurt?
No. Treatment is gentle and nothing is forced. Most patients find it relaxing, and many fall asleep on the table.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on the condition, how long it has been present, and how your body responds. Some problems resolve in a visit or two; long-standing patterns usually take a series of treatments spaced weeks apart. Dr. Dubey will give you a realistic estimate after your first visit.
Who can benefit from osteopathic treatment?
Patients of all ages. Because treatment is gentle and adjusted to each person, it is safe for older adults, athletes, office workers, and people recovering from injury. If you are unsure whether your situation is a good fit, call and ask.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. You can schedule directly by phone.
Do you take insurance? What does a visit cost?
Stillwater Osteopathic Medicine is a direct-pay practice, and fees are the same for everyone. For teens and adults (13 and older), a new patient visit (90 minutes) is $350 and a follow-up (45 minutes) is $240. For infants and children (newborn to 12), a new patient visit (60 minutes) is $250 and a follow-up (30 minutes) is $150. You pay at the time of service and receive a superbill you can submit to your insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement. See Fees & Policies for details.
Will osteopathic care replace my primary care doctor?
No. Osteopathic treatment complements your relationship with your primary care physician rather than replacing it. Dr. Dubey is glad to coordinate with your other providers.