Osteopathic philosophy is based on the idea that the current health of an individual is entirely dependent on all the bodily systems working in unison together. This includes mind, body, and spirit. Structure and function of the systems are inter-related. If the structure is off, then the function will be abnormal. Treatments are focused on balancing the structures and systems of the body. Structures include bones, muscles, fascia and connective tissue. Systems include the nervous system, lymphatic system, cranial sacral system, and cardiovascular system.

Since restoration of balance is the goal, the doctor seeks to find areas of restrictions or blockages. These can be in restrictions to fluid (blood, lymph, cerebral spinal fluid) processes, inhibiting the proper flow to the whole body. These can also be in the form of structural blocks, such as bones, muscles or organs. Osteopathic medicine seeks to unblock and restore function, enabling the body to heal.

All treatments are specific to the patient and what their body needs. However, treatments tend to be hands on and many techniques are used. Different techniques employed are soft tissue, myofascial release, somatic-emotional release, cranial-sacral, visceral manipulation, muscle energy, lymphatic, counterstain, and positional release. Many of these may look like stretching or light touch. Manipulation of the bones can also be utilized.

Since osteopathic manipulation therapy can affect entire bodily systems with simple touch, the range of conditions that can be treated is large, ranging from physical ailments to mental health, such as anxiety.

Pain relief from injuries, sprains, migraines, sciatica, etc has been noted.

Cranial-sacral therapy can be used for infants to treat feeding issues, spitting up and colic.