Holistic Medicine versus Traditional Medicine

Holistic Medicine versus Traditional Medicine

The main difference between holistic medicine and Western or traditional medicine is the approach. Simply defined, holistic health focuses on the body as a whole, rather than individual parts and symptoms, recognizing the importance of body, mind, spirituality, and emotions, as opposed to traditional medicine, which focuses on symptoms and cures.Emphasis is placed on individual symptoms and pain management. Diagnosis in western medicine is made through general classifications (textbook cases), rather than recognizing patients as individuals. Chemicals and surgery are the primary methods of treatment in this form of medicine, leading to unpleasant side effects (often worse than the original symptoms). Some side effects often prove fatal. Traditional medicine is best used to treat infectious diseases, trauma, and acute conditions.

Holistic medicine recognizes the individual, focusing on causes and patterns, using natural, organic, and ecological treatments directed towards healing, rather than masking symptoms. This form of medicine views each unit of the body as a whole, with every area affecting the other. When one area is deficient, the whole is deficient. Prevention and correction is then implemented alongside patient pro-activity. Changes in lifestyle, eating habits, and wellness practices are determined by the individual patient’s needs. Holistic medicine is best for chronic disorders (often the cause of stress and lifestyle), toxemia, immune problems, body system imbalances, and glandular deficiencies. 

I've Been In An Accident, Now What?

Chiropractic Therapy and Massage Therapy

After seeking medical attention, accident victims should seek chiropractic care, whether suffering from pain or not. Stiff and sore muscles, herniation of discs, and other musculoskeletal injuries are often the cause of future chronic pain (and possible scarring of tissue) when left untreated. A chiropractic evaluation after a car accident can determine possible injuries, even though these injuries may not produce immediate or painful symptoms. Undetected injuries can potentially lead to serious complications over an extended period of time. Spinal misalignments and whiplash are often a result of accidents, making chiropractic treatment (often combined with massage therapy) essential to wellness and recovery. These adjustments are non-invasive and are a safe alternative to drug treatment.

Massage therapy after an accident has many benefits, while working in tandem with chiropractic care to restore balance to the whole body. Massage therapists are trained to work with injuries resulting from car accidents, especially muscle sprains, whiplash, headaches, nerve compression, and lower back pain. Massage restores proper circulation to muscles, allowing for faster recovery to traumatized areas of the body, while relieving stress and pain that often result from car accidents.