Integrative Health Medicine

In northeastern Ohio, Connor Integrative Health Network at University Hospital, is growing their reach into implementing IHM services. They are “to recruit a core team of physician leaders to conduct research, treat patients and educate physicians about how to effectively incorporate integrative therapies (the combination of traditional medicine with evidence-based nonpharmacologic therapies) into their patient care plans, according to a news release”.

“Integrative medicine continues to rapidly grow in interest for patients seeking to enhance total well-being and improving their overall health,” Dr. Francoise Adan, director of the program, said in a prepared statement. “Research shows that patients who incorporate these kinds of therapies into their care have shorter recovery times, less pain and better outcomes overall.”

Evidence-based practices of massage therapy along with acupuncture, meditation and mindfulness, music and art therapy and yoga are among a few of the IHM therapies offered.

As you consider how to move to an IHM approach to your health and wellness, below is information on the bodies systems that massage can have a positive affect on.

The muscular system: Massage stretches and relaxes muscles which reduces pain and stiffness. Massage also releases the toxins built up in your muscles that can be the culprit of stiff, sore muscles.

• Lymphatic system: Massage stimulates the lymphatic system and helps the body eliminate waste products. The relaxing effect of the massage can relieve stress, which in turn can boost the immune system.
• Circulation system: Massage improves blood flow, which has a positive impact on the entire body. Improved blood flow is of particular importance to diabetics and the elderly.
• Skeletal system: Your bones are positively impacted by massage. Massage improves circulation by sending oxygen and nutrients to your bones. Also, as your muscles become more flexible, joint movement increases and joint pain and stiffness decrease.
• Nervous system: Stress impacts your nervous system. Massage is proven to have a positive impact on stress-related conditions like insomnia and tension headaches.
• Respiratory system: When you are relaxed and your breathing slows down, you take deeper, slower breaths, which is good for your lungs. Massage can also improve chest congestion from a common cold.
• Digestive system: Due to the relaxing effect massage has on your body as a whole, food and waste is moved through the digestive system with greater ease.
• Urinary system: Massage aids in lymphatic drainage and releases toxins from your muscles that make their way to your kidneys, allowing waste to be quickly eliminated.
• Female reproductive system: Massage aids in pain relief from cramping, PMS and menopausal symptoms.

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