OMM Can Bring Relief

If you called Angela Lim, D.O., a master manipulator, she’d take that as a compliment. That’s because manipulation—as in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine or OMM—is a key part of her job, as an osteopathic physician.

It’s a hands-on approach to pain, which takes a patient’s musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems all into account. And while it’s not for everyone, many of her patients report significant relief after only a few treatments.

“My goal is to treat you as effectively and efficiently as possible. For some people, that is one visit, although others may require ongoing maintenance,” she explains.

The practice of OMM was established by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 19th century. It typically involves the physician using their hands to move muscles and joints, using techniques that include stretching, pressure and resistance.

“I’m not a chiropractor and I don’t do massage,” explains Dr. Lim. “I’m not a magician or a miracle worker, either, but the treatments I provide for patients will often give them immediate, long-term relief.”

It’s a hands-on approach to pain, which takes a patient’s musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems all into account.

OMM can be applied to almost every age group, from the newborn to the elderly. She’s been able to help colicky babies, children with ear infections and asthma and adults suffering from migraines or constipation. Her techniques even promote healing for people who have recently had surgery.

Although she has her own patients as a family practice physician at the NorthBay Center for Primary Care at VacaValley Health Plaza, she is happy to take referrals from other doctors who think their patients might benefit from an OMM treatment. “I’ve seen patients who have been able to greatly reduce or stop medication for their pain after treatments.”

Education is also a big part of her mission. “We teach parents how to care for their children, and adults how to care for themselves. We focus on the big picture, and encourage a healthy diet and exercise as well.”

The pain, she explains, is not always what it seems. “You might tell me your back hurts, but after a full exam, I figure out that the problem is being caused by the fact that one leg is shorter than the other. And that a heel lift can make all the difference.”

Dr. Lim is board-certified in family medicine and board-eligible in neuromusculoskeletal medicine. She is accepting patients at the NorthBay Center for Primary Care at VacaValley Health Plaza in Vacaville. To schedule an appointment, call (707) 624-8500.