Editor’s Note: “Need to Know” is a series inspired by common forum questions and reader comments. You have a comment or question about MS? Visit our forum. This week’s question is inspired by the forum topic “Do we need a personalized approach to treating MS?» from May 23, 2019. Do you have an experience you would like to share? Leave a comment here or on the original forum topic.
Medicine models are more specific than ever. Patients should try to understand their symptoms and identify their healthcare provider’s philosophy, which could explain why some patients do not trust doctors and why some doctors underestimate their patients’ intelligence. Clear communication and shared vocabulary should be a higher priority.
Conventional medicine
We are more familiar with conventional medicine: medications, surgeries and other invasive procedures. Diagnosis and treatment take priority, with less emphasis on the root cause. Conventional medicine, or standard medical carehas led to a variety of disease-modifying therapies, at least for people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
On the other hand, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a wide range of unconventional medical approaches. For example, acupressure, acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, massage therapy, meditation, and nutritional supplements are not considered standard medical care.
According to National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, ACM is a non-standard medical practice. Either complementary medicine is used with conventional medicine or alternative medicine is used instead of Conventional medicine.
Four models of 21st century medicine
These terms may be familiar to you, but do you know what they mean?
Functional Medicine (FM)
THE Institute of Functional Medicine defines FM as “a systems biology-based approach that focuses on identifying and resolving the root cause of disease. Each symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many factors contributing to an individual’s illness.
FM emphasizes nutritional science, epigenetics (inherited changes in gene expression), and molecular biology focused on genes and genetic mapping. FM clinicians include physicians, osteopaths, nurse practitioners, naturopaths and chiropractors.
FM can be confused with integrative medicine or naturopathy.
Precision medicine (PM)
The reference of the genetics house identifies PM as “an emerging approach to disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in each person’s genes, environment, and lifestyle.” PM is also called personalized medicine or theranostics and profiles individuals using Big Data (data too complex to process using traditional methods) to identify potential treatment protocols.
PM can be performed by any type of specialist, including MS neurologists. PM may result in fewer “guinea pig” treatment approaches.
Integrative Medicine (IM)
THE Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine defines IM as “a medicine oriented towards healing which takes into account the person as a whole, including all aspects of their lifestyle”. It emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between practitioner and patient, is evidence-based and uses all appropriate therapies.
IM “does not reject conventional medicine or accept alternative therapies without reservation. Good medicine is based on good science. It is inquiry-driven and open to new paradigms. This suggests that IM is open to both conventional medicine and CAM.
What makes instant messaging different from FM?
According to Dietitians in integrative and functional medicine, IM seeks a strong patient-practitioner relationship and a holistic approach integrating multiple specialties. FM focuses on finding and treating the root causes of chronic diseases.
IM and FM are not mutually exclusive, but you might find scholars arguing over semantics.
Naturopathic Medicine (NM)
THE American Association of Naturopathic Physicians defines NM as “a distinct primary health care profession, emphasizing prevention, treatment, and optimal health through the use of therapeutic methods and substances that encourage the self-healing process inherent in people. The practice of naturopathic medicine includes modern and traditional, scientific and empirical methods.
Naturopaths recognize the healing power of nature and the value of holistic treatment. Doctors are seen as teachers who do no harm. Prevention is important, as is identifying and treating the causes of illnesses.
I’ll let you decide if these terms make sense. I speak for myself when I say that in the end I don’t care What it’s called – it just has to be work.
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Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information site about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, BioNews Services, and aims to generate discussion about issues related to multiple sclerosis.
