OMM Research Collaborative

Dr. Nathan Nakken

Dr. Nathan Barnhurst

Dr. Dustin Danowski

The OMM Research Collaborative is Noorda-COM’s first dedicated osteopathic research lab,
focused on advancing the science and clinical application of osteopathic manipulative medicine.
Our mission is to strengthen the evidence base for OMM and empower the next generation of
osteopathic physicians to lead as clinician-scientists, innovators, and advocates for hands-on,
holistic care.

OMM and Ultrasound Lipolysis in Adipose Tissue Distribution

Funded by the American Osteopathic Foundation, this study explores how lipolytic ultrasound technologies affect adipose redistribution. OMM serves as a comparative method to evaluate lymphatic drainage, lipid metabolism, and the physiologic pathways involved in weight-related interventions.

Cranial OMM Therapy Validation Studies

A series of projects focused on establishing inter-rater and intra-rater reliability for craniosacral techniques. Includes literature reviews, meta-analyses, and blinded clinical studies aimed at strengthening diagnostic and treatment standards.

Functional Biomechanics Using DARI Motion Capture

Leveraging DARI technology, these studies investigate improvements in range of motion and functional movement following OMM and related therapies—bridging sports medicine, physical therapy, and neuromusculoskeletal medicine.

Holistic OMM Interventions vs. Standard of Care

This project compares traditional clinical procedures with comprehensive OMM treatments to evaluate differences in recovery, range of motion, and patient outcomes.

Pain Management, Performance Enhancement, and Recovery Studies

Ongoing projects explore OMM’s role in acute and chronic pain, athletic optimization, and daily functional performance.

Noorda-COM Clinic Case Studies

Students gain direct clinical exposure by examining real-world cases presented at the Noorda-COM OMM Clinic, analyzing treatments, outcomes, and patient responses.

Student Experience

Students participating in the OMM Research Collaborative gain:

  • Hands-on experience in clinical and biomechanics research

  • One-on-one mentorship from OMM Fellows and faculty

  • Leadership opportunities within active research teams

  • Access to regional and national conference presentations

Leadership & Structure

The Collaborative is led by Dr. Nakken, Dr. Barnhurst, and Dr. Danowski, who serve as Principal Investigators and oversee all research initiatives.

Additional clinical and OMM faculty regularly contribute mentorship, expertise, and project sponsorship.

Day-to-day operations are managed by the OMM Fellows, who guide students toward leadership roles, publications, and professional scholarly development.