An osteopathic manual practitioner (OMP) is a healthcare professional who uses hands-on, manual techniques to treat, and prevent pain or dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system and related structures (muscles, joints, fascia, ligaments, nerves, etc.).

Key features that distinguish an OMP:
- Training and philosophy: They are trained in the principles of osteopathy (originally founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 19th century), which emphasize the body’s ability to self-heal and self-regulate, the interrelationship between structure and function, and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health.
- Manual techniques only: Unlike fully licensed osteopathic physicians (DOs) in the United States—who complete medical school, residency, and can prescribe drugs, perform surgery, etc.—osteopathic manual practitioners do not prescribe medication, order lab tests, or perform surgery. Their scope is limited to manual therapy.

Common techniques they use:
- Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) or osteopathic manual therapy
- Soft-tissue mobilization
- Joint mobilization and articulation
- Muscle energy technique
- Cranial-sacral therapy (cranial osteopathy)
- Visceral manipulation
- Myofascial release
- Strain-counterstrain
- Lymphatic drainage techniques