American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine

American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (AOBNM) is a certifying board that evaluates and certifies osteopathic physicians in the United States who specialize in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. This board is one of the 18 medical specialty certifying boards of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). The AOBNM is dedicated to maintaining high standards for osteopathic patient care and providing a pathway for osteopathic physicians to demonstrate their expertise in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM).

History

The American Osteopathic Board of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine was established to recognize osteopathic physicians who have achieved expertise in the field of neuromusculoskeletal medicine. This specialty focuses on the interrelationship between the nervous and musculoskeletal systems and how this relationship affects the overall health and well-being of patients. The board was created to ensure that osteopathic physicians meet rigorous standards of training, knowledge, and professional conduct.

Certification Process

The certification process by the AOBNM involves several steps designed to assess the physician's knowledge, skills, and experience in neuromusculoskeletal medicine. The process typically includes:

1. Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must have completed an AOA-approved residency in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, hold an unrestricted medical license, and adhere to the ethical standards set by the AOA.

2. Written Examination: A comprehensive examination that tests the candidate's knowledge of neuromusculoskeletal medicine principles, diagnosis, and treatment.

3. Oral Examination: An assessment that evaluates the candidate's clinical skills, decision-making abilities, and application of osteopathic principles in patient care.

4. Continuous Certification: Certified physicians are required to participate in ongoing education and practice evaluation to maintain their certification. This includes completing a certain number of continuing medical education (CME) credits and passing periodic recertification exams.

Scope of Practice

Physicians certified by the AOBNM specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the neuromusculoskeletal system. This includes, but is not limited to, back pain, sports injuries, repetitive stress injuries, and chronic pain conditions. They use a variety of treatment modalities, including Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), to help restore optimal function and improve the quality of life for their patients.

Importance of Certification

Certification by the AOBNM signifies that a physician has met the highest standards of competence in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. It assures patients, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders that the physician has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care. Furthermore, it promotes the advancement of osteopathic medicine by encouraging physicians to pursue excellence in their practice and contribute to the growth of the specialty.

See Also

• Osteopathic medicine in the United States
• Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
• American Osteopathic Association