The role of CAM in managing osteoarthritis

1-Select one (1) of the specific therapies described in the article from either the
mind-body therapies, the energy therapies, natural products or body-based manipulative
therapies.
2-How does this therapy help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis? Is there any
scientific evidence to support the use of the therapy you selected? If so, what is the
evidence?
3- How would you discuss this issue with a patient that insists on using the therapy
that you selected?

THE ROLE OF CAM IN MANAGING OSTEOARTHRITIS

Administration of the right therapy to help manage the osteoarthritis problem is essential
for all patients suffering from the condition. In this case, I would select the mind-body therapy to
manage the condition of the patient effectively. These mind-body therapies such as yoga, tai chi,
and qigong are important in changing the patient’s emotional or mental state through utilization
of physical movement. The mind-body therapy is vital in relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis
due to the massive benefits it has on the patient been treated (Fouladbakhsh, 2012). The therapy
helps in enhancing physical function and alleviating pain experienced. The mind-body
intervention also ensures reduced inflammation thus promotes muscle relaxation. Progressive
muscle relaxation has been proved to be efficient in alleviating the symptoms associated with
osteoarthritis. Patients with osteoarthritis experience pain symptoms which are addressed by

THE ROLE OF CAM IN MANAGING OSTEOARTHRITIS 2
adopting the intervention which effectively reduces desensitize central pain and hyper vigilance
pathways ( Fouladbakhsh,2012).
There is evidence for the use of the mind-body therapy and its importance in managing
osteoarthritis. Based on the randomized control trials evidence, there is proof of the
effectiveness of mind-body therapy through the combination of various approaches so as to help
manage the condition appropriately. A systematic review of literature based on the trials
encourages and recommends the use of the mind-body approach in managing osteoarthritis. The
discussion with the patient would be based on the benefits of the approach and how to implement
the interventions. I would advise the patient on the importance of using a combination of
approach where existential, social and emotional issues are handled as well as checking on the
physical problem to enhance long-term benefits to the patient (Fouladbakhsh, 2012). The
importance of qigong, tai chi and yoga and other practices such as meditation and imagery would
be discussed. In a nutshell, the adoption of the mind-body approach would lead to effective
management of osteoarthritis.

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Reference

Fouladbakhsh, J. (2012). Complementary and alternative modalities to relieve osteoarthritis
symptoms. American Journal of Nursing, 112(3) Supplement 1, S44-S51.