A holistic approach to healing can be a powerful tool in managing pain. While the word holistic may bring to mind yoga mats and herbal remedies, it actually refers to a way of taking an entire person into account when treating health concerns. For example, if you have a broken leg that merits an X-ray and cast, a visit to your doctor can also include the advice to rest the injury, eat nourishing food, and meditate to speed up your recovery. Similarly, if you have chronic pain and depression, your holistic treatment plan may include psychotherapy, exercise, massage, acupuncture, and other non-invasive therapies to help you manage your condition.
The goal of a holistic approach is to treat the whole patient, not just address the symptoms of an illness. A holistic practitioner will take the time to understand a patient and their unique lifestyle, stressors, and goals for wellness. During their initial assessment, they may ask patients how their pain affects their daily functioning and quality of life, whether or not they have co-occurring psychiatric conditions, and more.
Once this information is gathered, the practitioner will develop an individualized care plan that addresses both the patient’s current symptoms and their root cause. They will provide a variety of health care practices that encompass everything from herbs, nutritional supplements, therapeutic modalities, and bodywork to mindfulness and spiritual exploration to promote a full and complete recovery.
This is why a holistic approach is such an important part of chronic pain management. It focuses on helping patients to reclaim their power over their pain and return to living their lives as normal as possible. For Darnall, that means reducing opioid prescriptions as much as possible and equipping patients with the tools they need to manage their pain long term, without the risk of addiction or dependence.
In a recent study, researchers found that when participants received holistic treatments—such as mindfulness training, group psychotherapy, and body-based approaches like massage therapy and acupuncture—alongside their medication, they had better outcomes than those who only took their medications. This is because when people feel empowered to participate in their own recovery, they are more likely to follow through on the changes that are necessary to improve their quality of life.
While holistic treatment might be a newer buzzword in the medical world, it’s actually been around for thousands of years. In fact, the ancient Greeks and Romans used a blend of both medical and natural remedies to promote healing and wellness, and Hippocrates endorsed self-healing as a way of addressing disease. Unfortunately, the discovery of germs led doctors to shift away from this approach and focus solely on medical solutions such as surgery and pharmaceuticals. But the truth is that our bodies were designed to heal themselves, and a holistic approach to medicine can be one of the most effective ways to promote optimal health and well-being.
Chiropractic therapy is a natural and effective way to manage pain and improve overall well-being. By focusing on realigning the spine and restoring the body’s balance, chiropractic care addresses the root causes of pain rather than merely masking the symptoms. As a non-invasive and drug-free approach, it provides a safe and sustainable option for individuals seeking lasting pain relief. Whether it’s back pain, neck discomfort, headaches, or joint issues, chiropractic therapy offers a holistic and empowering path to managing pain and living a healthier, pain-free life. If you are considering chiropractic care for pain management, consult with a qualified Atlanta chiropractor to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific condition and health needs.