Chronic pain in joints and bones, as well as emotional disorders such as anxiety or depression, are some of the conditions treated with alternative medicine at the Specialized Center for Integrative Medicine (CEMI) in Mexico City.
Fátima Aldama, 65, has been receiving acupuncture, homeopathy, and massage therapy for about a year and a half to treat the pain she has suffered in her spine, knees, and ankles for at least 15 years, and has noticed a significant improvement.
“I have had two spinal surgeries, in allopathic medicine they only use painkillers, and here they don’t use any of that. With acupuncture, my spinal problem has improved a lot. I came for that and for my osteoarthritis of the knees, and it has improved a lot,” she said.
Initially, the patient attended a consultation once a week for treatment, but currently, she only requires therapy every 15 days, and she also goes to massage therapy every 20 days or once a month.
Unlike conventional medicine, integrative medicine allows patients to be “at the center” of their consultations and achieve a physiological balance to improve their conditions, Adalberto Orozco Navarro, director of CEMI, explained to this publishing house.
In the case of phytotherapy (which uses medicinal plants), treatments are usually long, but the patient notices improvements in their ailments from the first week, and within a period of three or four months it can be said that the person is already healthy.
“However, our patients are essentially older adults and, therefore, we usually end up with a condition, they are discharged, and it may be that after three months we have that patient perhaps no longer with the same ailments, but with other ones, so that patients can be there for a whole year,” added Orozco Navarro.
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Integrative Medicine: A Holistic Approach to Pain Relief and Emotional Well-being
Chronic pain in joints and bones, as well as emotional disorders such as anxiety or depression, are some of the conditions treated with alternative medicine at the Specialized Center for Integrative Medicine (CEMI) in Mexico City.
A Case Study: Fátima Aldama’s Journey to Pain Relief
Mrs. Fátima Aldama, 65, has been receiving acupuncture, homeopathy, and massage therapy for about a year and a half to treat the pain she has suffered in her spine, knees, and ankles for at least 15 years. She has noticed a significant improvement.
“I have had two spinal surgeries, in allopathic medicine they only use painkillers and here they don’t use any of that. With acupuncture, my spinal problem has improved a lot. I came for that and for my osteoarthritis of the knees and it has improved a lot,” she said.
Initially, Fátima attended consultations once a week, but currently, she only requires therapy every 15 days, and she also goes to massage therapy every 20 days or once a month. Her experience highlights the potential of integrative medicine for providing lasting pain relief and reducing reliance on conventional medications.
The Principles of Integrative Medicine
Unlike conventional medicine, integrative medicine allows patients to be “at the center” of their consultations and achieve a physiological balance to improve their conditions, Adalberto Orozco Navarro, director of CEMI, explained to this publishing house.
This holistic approach emphasizes a patient-centered care model that is tailored to individual needs. It aims to address the root causes of illness, not just symptoms, by considering the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of the individual.
Diverse Therapies Offered at CEMI
CEMI offers a range of therapies, including:
- Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses thin needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.
- Homeopathy: A system of medicine that uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities.
- Massage Therapy: Manipulating soft tissues to relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation.
- Phytotherapy: Utilizes medicinal plants to treat various ailments. While usually requiring long-term treatments, patients often notice improvements within the first week, and significant progress is typically seen within three to four months.
Benefits of Integrative Medicine
Integrative medicine offers numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced reliance on medications: Many people experience relief from their conditions without the need for conventional medications, which can have unwanted side effects.
- Improved quality of life: By tackling pain and emotional distress, integrative medicine can enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
- Personalized care: A holistic approach allows for treatment plans tailored to the individual’s unique needs and preferences.
- Complementary approach: Can work in conjunction with conventional medicine to provide comprehensive care.
Long-term Care and the Importance of Follow-Up
While CEMI patients often experience positive outcomes, the center recognizes that chronic conditions require ongoing care and maintenance. Older adults, in particular, may experience the emergence of new ailments over time. Therefore, patients may continue receiving treatment for a year or more to address their evolving needs.
The center’s commitment to long-term care ensures that patients receive the support they need to manage their health effectively and maintain a high quality of life. This dedication to comprehensive care is essential for those living with chronic conditions.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Chronic Pain and Emotional Well-being
CEMI’s integrative approach is transforming how chronic pain and emotional disorders are treated in Mexico City. With its focus on individual needs and patient-centered care, it offers a promising path for improved health and well-being. By combining traditional and alternative therapies, CEMI empowers patients to take an active role in their healing journey and achieve lasting relief from their conditions.