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Alternative medicine
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, USA.
Iowa Medicine : Journal of the Iowa Medical Society
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Over 40% of Americans use unconventional medicine, including complementary and alternative therapies. This feature explores the significant role of spirituality and mind-body practices in the healing process.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
- Mind-Body Therapies
Background:
- Growing patient and media interest in alternative and complementary therapies.
- Significant public utilization of unconventional medical care in the US, exceeding 40% of the population.
- Need to understand the scope and impact of non-allopathic/osteopathic treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of spirituality in healing.
- To explore the application of mind-body therapies in patient care.
- To provide an overview of unconventional healing modalities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on spirituality and mind-body interventions.
- Analysis of patient usage trends in complementary and alternative medicine.
- Focus on evidence and application of these therapies in healing.
Main Results:
- Spirituality is a frequently utilized aspect of patient-centered care.
- Mind-body therapies demonstrate potential in supporting the healing process.
- A substantial portion of the population actively engages with these unconventional approaches.
Conclusions:
- Spirituality and mind-body practices are integral components of healing for a large segment of the population.
- Further research and integration of these therapies into conventional care models are warranted.
- Understanding patient use of complementary and alternative medicine is crucial for holistic healthcare.