As we have seen, therapeutic effect is increased if the patient is aligned with the treatment and has positive reinforcement for the outcomes. Research confirms the beneficial effects of patients’ increased control over their health and body. Approaches to treatment that encourage patient empowerment and that share tools for better control of reactions to stress, act to favorably reinforce the direction of patients’ health outcomes and are essential to consider in the treatment “Plan.”
We have furthermore established that from the perspective of the patient the “mind-body” connection exists not only in a theoretical way but has clear biological pathways. We have also raised the point that despite these pathways, there are individual variations due to the individual’s “coping” skills. These skills may be in part related to personality traits as well as to a past traumatic memory that activates and sensitizes these pathways.
Plus, we have shown that pain perception is directly influenced by suggestions both positive and negative. So how can it be that we value the “scientific double blind studies,” which are limited by their context and subject to individual variances, to the detriment of the doctor-patient relationship?
It seems evident to me that the practice of medicine is more an Art than a Science. Now science has finally backed the art that must be involved. In my next post, I’ll offer you my final word in this long journey of discovery we’ve taken together. I look forward to seeing you there.
