Many integrative therapies can be successfully joined with conventional medicine to help relieve pain. Research has shown that integrative therapies can be effective in relieving the following conditions:

• Back and neck pain;

• Arthritis and joint pain;

• Pain resulting from injury or trauma;

• Post-surgery pain;

• Headache pain;

• Pelvic pain and menstrual cramps.

Integrative therapies are unique as they address the whole person. Instead of treating the source of the pain, integrative medicine takes a whole-body approach.

Most integrative therapies target both mind and body to help reduce pain. A good example is yoga, which quiets and relaxes the mind while stretching and strengthening the body. Practicing yoga might not directly relieve the source of your pain, but it can relax your body, loosen tense muscles, refresh your mind and mentally prepare you to better manage your discomfort.