Alternative therapies in health and medicine
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Altern Ther Health Med · Mar 2000
ReviewA review of mind/body therapies in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders with implications for the elderly.
A comprehensive, but not systematic, review of the research on complementary and alternative treatments, specifically mind/body techniques, on musculoskeletal disease was conducted at Stanford University. The goals of the review were to establish a comprehensive literature review and provide a rationale for future research carrying the theme of "successful aging." ⋯ Reviewers found a dearth of randomized controlled research conducted in the US. There is a lack of studies with which to determine appropriate dosage and understand the mechanisms by which many of the practices work. Anecdotal evidence, some controlled research, clinical observation, as well as the cost effectiveness and lack of side effects of the mind/body treatments make further investigation a high priority.
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In the history of Chinese medicine, Five Elements was one of the major doctrines influencing not only acupuncture but all aspects of society. Through the system of correspondences, Five Element acupuncture provides a unique understanding of the connections between body, mind, and spirit in health and disease. Today the practice of Five Element acupuncture in the West has been further refined and differs in substantial ways from what is known as traditional Chinese medicine. The clinical application of the Five Element system provides an understanding of how the Taoist concept of the Laws of Nature can be used in modern society.
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Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and multiple tender points as well as high levels of self-reported disability and poor quality of life. ⋯ A mind-body intervention including patient education, meditation techniques, and movement therapy appears to be an effective adjunctive therapy for patients with fibromyalgia.