Chiropractic care, massage therapy, meditation, and yoga are some of the more common forms of integrative medicine – a form of medical therapy that combines practices and treatments from alternative medicine with conventional medicine. Here we discuss the benefits of integrative medicine, especially its importance among older adults.

The Mind-Body Connection

According to a recent poll conducted by the University of Michigan, nearly 40% of older adults (age 50 years and up) have used or currently use at least one form of integrative medicine to ease symptoms of a physical or mental health condition. Of the poll respondents, 82% believe the mind has a major impact on health, and 14% believe it to have a minor impact.

Interestingly, only 18% of adults of these adults report it to their primary health care provider. Findings from the same poll show that primary care physicians should discuss the benefits of integrative medicine strategies.

“As research continues to show the importance of the mind-body connection in health, and as more rigorous studies are done to determine what effects integrative strategies can have on various conditions, it’s important for patients and providers to keep the lines of communication open,” states Rachael Maciasz, M.D., a general internal medicine physician who worked on the poll. 

Benefits of Integrative Medicine

Individuals in the poll who have used or currently use integrative medicine seek relief for the following common conditions:

  • Pain management and prevention
  • Insomnia
  • Digestive issues
  • Stress management
  • Treatment of an acute physical injury
  • Improved mental health

To treat conditions such as these, primary care providers often provide lifestyle counseling, prescribe medications, or make referrals to specialty care doctors without mention of integrative medicine. However, in the interest of a successful treatment strategy, doctors should consider appropriate forms of integrative medicine, and patients should also be forthcoming about their desire to use it or whether they have already.

“Providers may want to acquaint themselves with the level of evidence surrounding the use of each approach for different conditions,” states poll co-director Jeffrey Kullgren, M.D.

Finding the Right Form of Integrative Medicine 

There are many resources for older adults who want to focus on their mental health and find information on treatment options, one of which is AARP’s Mental Health Center.

If you are interested in incorporating integrative medicine as part of your overall medical strategy, our St. Petersburg, FL chiropractors can help. To learn more about our treatments and services or to schedule an appointment, please contact Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness at (727) 289-9148.





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