Integrative medicine is a patient-centered, holistic approach to healthcare that combines conventional medical treatments with complementary and alternative therapies to promote overall well-being and address the root causes of illness. At the core of integrative medicine is the belief that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when provided with the right support and resources.
Osteopathic medicine is a key component of integrative medicine, focusing on the relationship between the body’s structure and function and how it impacts health. Osteopathic physicians, or DOs, receive comprehensive medical training, including conventional medical treatments, but also have additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). OMT is a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness or injury by manipulating the musculoskeletal system to restore balance and facilitate the body’s natural healing process.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), integrative medicine emphasizes the partnership between patient and practitioner, taking into account the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—along with all aspects of lifestyle. This approach acknowledges the importance of addressing physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may influence health outcomes.
Integrative medicine recognizes that each individual is unique and may respond differently to various treatments. Therefore, it aims to personalize care based on a thorough understanding of the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, preferences, and goals. By combining evidence-based conventional medicine with complementary therapies such as OMT, acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, and mind-body practices like yoga and meditation, integrative medicine seeks to optimize health outcomes and improve quality of life.
References:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2020). “What is Integrative Medicine?” Retrieved from https://nccih.nih.gov/health/integrative-health.
- American Osteopathic Association (AOA). (n.d.). “What is Osteopathic Medicine?” Retrieved from https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/.
