Alternative has been dropped. It is being replaced by newer terms like integrative and complementary medicine, integrative health, and/or just integrative medication.
Integrative Medicine (IM) is healing-oriented Medicine. It considers the whole person, as well as all aspects of life. It emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between patient and practitioner, is based on evidence and uses all applicable therapies.
Integrative medicine combines regular medicine with complementary treatments like acupuncture and massage. Integrative medicine aims to treat the whole person, including your mind, body and spirit. A wide range of Integrative Supplements are available in grocery stores and pharmacies that can help improve your overall health.
The Defining Principles of Integrative Medicine
Integrative medicine can be described as a combination of traditional approaches to health and less-traditional therapies. While natural therapies are preferable to traditional methods, traditional treatments can still be used when traditional options are exhausted or aren’t working.
Integrative medicine encourages patients to adopt healthy lifestyles and develop the skills necessary to maintain a healthy body.
- The patient and practician are partners within the healing process.
- All factors that impact health, wellness, or disease are considered, including the mind, spirit, community, and body.
- The body’s natural healing process is enhanced when both traditional and alternative methods are used in the right way.
- When possible, natural and less invasive interventions should be used.
- Integrative medicine does not reject conventional medicine. It also accepts uncritically alternative therapies.
- Smart medicine relies upon good science. It’s inquiry-driven and receptive to new paradigms.
- The concept of treatment is not the only important one. Both are equally useful.
- Integrative medicine practitioners should live by its principles and be open to self-exploration, self-development, and other opportunities.
Here are some common Integrative Medicine practices
Integrative medicine encompasses many different practices. Some of these you might already be incorporating into your daily health and wellness routines without realizing. Do you remember grandma’s bizarre cold remedies like adding honey to your tea or drinking orange juice to get vitamin C? Or rubbing peppermint oil on your temples for a bad headache? These are examples of integrative medicine. These remedies are not meant to be a cure but can relieve symptoms and help the body recover faster.
Your provider may also suggest meditation, which can reduce blood pressure, anxiety, and depression by directly impacting the sympathetic nervous system. Experts agree that meditating for a few minutes each day can have a positive impact on your energy levels and sleep patterns.
Many over-the-counter products are available at grocery stores and pharmacies. Elderberry boosts the immune system, magnesium improves mood, and Vitamin A maintains a healthy reproductive system. Based on your specific needs, your primary care provider will recommend supplements.
One of the most popular integrative practices is acupuncture. It has been proven to alleviate many types of pain, including headaches, lower-back pain, post-operative nausea, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.
How Alternative Medicine is different from this?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that replaces conventional medical care. Alternative medicine has not been subject to the same rigorous scientific scrutiny as conventional medical treatments in order to ensure that they are safe and effective.
There are many stories on the Internet about people with cancer who have miraculously cured themselves using alternative treatments. Alternative treatments may not be able to cure cancer. Some of these treatments could also pose a risk to your health.
Alternative treatments are also possible and can be costly. They are not covered by insurance.
Reasons to Use Integrative Medicine
- The doctor and patient must have a relationship that lasts. You can avoid illness and disease by focusing on your health. Integrative medicine is a combination of holistic and proactive thinking and conventional and alternative therapies. You would be hoping for both of the methods.
- All options are considered and your treatment will be unique. Combining conventional and alternative medicine to meet your individual needs. You will avoid any interactions with other doctors by consulting only one doctor. Do not ignore any possible treatment options. Instead, explore integrative medicine for the best results.
- We view you as an individual and not just your symptoms. This means we take a look at all parts of you, including your mind, body, soul. Mentally ill can lead to physical illness. We can prevent some illnesses from ever starting by treating the whole person.
Downsides of Alternative Medicines for Back Pain
- There is very little scientific research. Evidence is limited when it comes to scientific proof. Many people doubt the validity of alternative treatments for back pain. It is not 100% proven to solve every problem.
- Longer-term treatment. Traditional medical procedures are quick and simple. Alternative medicine is a marathon and not a sprint. Alternative medicine is largely founded on natural products and their ability to interact with your body and heal it. Alternative medicines require a longer treatment time and healing time because they treat the root cause of the problem. You must also take part in the healing process.
- In emergency situations, not recommended. Alternative medicines are not recommended in emergency situations. Traditional medicine works quickly. If you are in an emergency situation, consult traditional medical professionals.
- There is no regulation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t approve of many alternative medicines. As with all things, research is important. Be informed about alternative medicine and trusted practices. Before you take any risks with your health, ask for references and referrals.