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Conceptual Model of Integrative Medicine
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Overview of Therapies:
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“Rather than being polarized and competitive, healing can be patient-centered, integrated, cooperative, and holistic."
- Kathi Kemper, M.D. , The Holistic Pediatrician
Nearly all therapies can be divided into one of four categories:
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Bioenergetic |
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Biomechanical |
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Biochemical |
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Lifestyle and Mind-Body |
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Biochemical
Medications
Herbs
Dietary Supplements such as vitamins and minerals
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Lifestyle and Mind-body
Nutrition
Exercise
Environment
Mind-body
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Biomechanical
Massage, Physical Therapy, and all Bodywork
Chiropractic and Osteopathic Adjustments
Surgery
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Bioenergetic
Acupuncture, Acupressure
Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, Laying on of Hands, Reiki, and Qi Gong
Prayer and Ritual
Homeopathy
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Goals for Healing |
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YANG-type/Specific/Objective
Cure
Manage symptoms
Prevent specific disease
Reduce or manage specific toxin |
YIN-type/Global/Subjective
Connection/Support/Trust
Meaning/Transcendence
Harmony
Peace
Well-being/Resilience
Reduce dependence |
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Most biomedical research has focused on Yang-type goals, i.e.,
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Treatment
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Specific Disease or Symptom
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Less Specific Disease
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Better quality of life
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Example: |
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Antibiotics
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Kidney Infection
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Infection Resolves
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Patient feels better and
resumes normal activities & sense of well-being |
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Many complementary therapies focus on Yin-type goals, and require a slightly different scientific model:
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Treatment |
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Person |
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Improved Well-being |
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Fewer diseases and symptoms |
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Acupuncture
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Person
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Improved well-being
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Less pain
Less nausea
Less anxiety
Better sleep
Improved resilience
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