TAKING AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO HEALTH CARE
This blog is about the approach we take to patient care at Rivus, Integrative.
First let’s define some terms.
Complementary is something that complements, assists, helps, or adds. Therefore, complementary healthcare is something that can add to conventional medicine or in some instances can be used as an alternative treatment in place of conventional medicine.
Conventional medicine, defined as the medical community’s knowledge, skills, practices used in the maintenance of physical and mental health. In the United States this would include pharmacotherapy, diagnostic testing and interventional medicine.
Now let me define Integrative healthcare.This approach uses the combination of the best validated conventional and complementary methods. It includes a partnership between patient and practitioner in healing and staying healthy. This philosophy considers all factors that influence wellness, including mind, body, spirit and community. This philosophy maintains that we should use natural, effective, less-invasive interventions whenever possible.
This is the most exciting time in healthcare because we have so many great opportunities available which we can take advantage…conventional medicine and complementary techniques.
I like lists, so I’m going to do a very basic breakdown of complementary healthcare opportunities you should consider.
Group 1 –Hands-on therapy – Acupuncture and Massage therapy, any type of therapy that involves touch is very healing.
Group 2- Nutritional therapies – Herbal remedies, supplements and diet changes are less toxic ways to alleviate pain/illness.
Group 3 –Somatic focus – Focusing on the body in a way that leads to meditative and physical benefits – Yoga and Tai Chi are prime examples of this type of experience.
Group 4- Mind-body experiences – Prime examples are mindfulness, meditation.
Complementary techniques can help, especially in combination with other validated methods. Find the guidance you need and take responsibility for your care by thoroughly evaluating these therapies. Check on the training of the provider, consider cost and make sure you have a good attitude towards the therapy before jumping in. What I’m saying here is do your homework.
The best therapy is that which works. Sounds easy doesn’t it, but we still have people doing things that don’t help and not trying out opportunities that may. Find a healthcare provider that is willing to work with you so will not miss out on any great opportunities.
Take Care and best wishes on your quest for wellness.
Dr. Kent Smalley