Some doctors are D.O.'s and some are M.D.'s. Is there a difference?

D.O.'s (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) and M.D.'s are considered to be equivalent degrees. D.O.'s, however, place additional emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, and also can perform hands-on manipulation (called osteopathic manipulation). This can be a very effective tool when treating various injuries or pain. However, D.O.'s are not limited to manipulation, as they also prescribe drugs, do surgery, and practice a full scope of medicine. Only D.O.'s and M.D.'s are recognized by the American Medical Association as fully licensed physicians in the United States.