The Rise of Integrative Medicine
A Shift in The Evolution of Healthcare
to its integrative nature is a realization that conventional and holistic options can be combined to help you feel yourself.
Integrative medicine is the healthcare approach of using conventional and holistic practices to promote your overall well-being.
Commitment to holistic options allows you to explore the transformative power of medicine, allowing you to stay on top of life.
The main reason for integration is to leave behind strategies focused entirely on treating specific symptoms and diseases of modern living, which have promoted the traditional healthcare system.
Evidence of limitations in addressing the complex nature of human health can be seen in
The Role of Conventional Medicine
in healthcare, particularly in acute situations and emergencies, where conventional medicine shines, encompassing diagnostic tools, pharmaceutical interventions, and advanced medical procedures.
Acknowledging the value of conventional medicine in providing immediate and necessary care while recognizing the need for a broader and more holistic approach to wellness means
Conventional Medicine and
Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM)
can be used to provide you with more comprehensive care.
For example, a patient with chronic pain can experience acupuncture to help with inflammation while taking medication to manage their condition.
According to a 2008 study by Barnes et al., integrative medicine is becoming quite popular. The work found that in 2002, 114 million adults in the United States used CAM to seek more comprehensive and personalized care, up from 83 million adults during the 1990s.
The healthy growth of CAM is attributed to holistic practitioners who take the time to understand each individual's unique needs and develop a personalized care plan.
The Holistic Approach
emphasizes the whole person rather than one symptom or disease; integrating practices such as nutrition, mindfulness, energy healing, movement therapies, and hands-on bodywork supporting your daily life or conventional medical treatments.
By considering your health's physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects, this inclusive approach offers a more comprehensive and personalized method of patient care.
Popular Holistic Options
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Tai chi
• Acupuncture
• Herbal medicine
• Nutrition counseling
• Mind-body therapy
Research on Holistic Methods
is increasing, with evidence to support their use for a wide range of health conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and more.
One study of note, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found that yoga can help to improve the quality of life for people with cancer (Hoffman et al., 2013).
Regulation of Holistic Modalities
varies from state to state, with some states requiring licensing for holistic practitioners while others do not.
This variation in law can pose challenges when searching for a qualified practitioner.
Conducting thorough research is crucial to finding a practitioner who meets your needs and adheres to your state's appropriate standards and regulations.
Researching Holistic Professionals
helps ensure they have been adequately educated and trained in their respective modalities.
Look for a practitioner with experience working with people with similar health conditions to yours.
Affiliation with a professional organization that regulates holistic practitioners can improve your potential to receive high-quality care.
A responsible practice is insured and prepared for the unfortunate event something goes wrong during treatment.
Locate Qualified Holistic Practitioners
with a few tips.
• Ask your doctor for recommendations.
• Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues.
• Search online for holistic practitioners in your area.
• Read reviews of holistic practitioners.
• Consider references from other patients.
Closing thoughts
highlight the powerful paradigm shift in healthcare with integrative medicine.
Bridging the gap between conventional and holistic approaches is meant to extend the quality time we have with each other.
Empowering individuals to embrace integrative medicine principles is helping them combine conventional medicine's strengths with evidence-based holistic modalities.
Comprehensive, patient-centered care that prioritizes overall well-being is the bright future of medicine, available presently and becoming increasingly popular as people seek a personalized healthcare experience.
Thank you for reading!
If you found this article helpful and inspiring, or if you would like to learn more about how a holistic approach to your health could greatly benefit your life, click the button below to visit our supporting sciences page at www.VitalGnosis.com
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References
Barnes, P. M., Powell-Griner, E., McFeeters, K. A., Nahin, R. L., & DeSimone, C. (2008). Complementary and alternative medicine use among adults: United States, 2002. National Health Statistics Reports, 12(12), 1–23.
Hoffman, M. M., Sawyer, S. M., et al. (2013). Yoga for cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, *105(16), 1240–1253.
The information in this blog post is for educational purposes only, not professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific health questions or concerns.
