A Practical Review of Mind-Body Medicine (MBM): Descriptions of Prevalent MBM Therapies, Indications, Contraindications, and Efficacy

At present, various types of mind-body medicine (MBM) interventions are employed. Some of the most prevalent methods include autogenic therapy, biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy, guided imagery, hypnotherapy, meditation, relaxation techniques, spiritual dynamics, support groups, visualization, and yoga. Arthritis, anxiety, bronchial asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, conditions requiring neuromuscular rehabilitation, epilepsy, gastrointestinal disorders, headache, incontinence, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, and pain—in specific cases—responds favorably to distinct mind-body therapies (MBTs). MBM considers the coherent functioning of the mind, body, and behavior a basic premise in recovering health. Thus, MBM emphasizes that behavioral, social, mental, spiritual, and emotional factors—when out of balance or in a disharmonious state—can adversely affect an individual’s health, well-being, and quality of life. Keen interest in this treatment approach was spawned during World War II, when, due to a drastic shortage of morphine, saline was injected into seriously wounded soldiers. Surprisingly, many saline-injected soldiers experienced pain relief—which hatched the term “placebo effect”. Nonetheless, it appears likely that actual physiological processes and mechanisms result from some, or perhaps all of the mind-body interventions described in this review. However, research explicitly confirming or explaining these purported beneficial effects is notably lacking. When compared to most pharmaceutical and surgical interventions, MBTs are generally considered safe. Nevertheless, precautions must be observed. When other forms of medical treatment are essential, MBTs should not be used alone. This caution holds, especially in patients with heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Patients seeking alternative forms of treatment should consult with an established mind-body medicine practitioner. Regarding adolescent patients with post-traumatic stress disorder and sexual, physical, or emotional abuse, the application of hypnosis should be combined with treatment or oversight from a licensed, mental health professional. Pregnant women are discouraged from having a massage, as are patients with bleeding disorders, thrombocytopenia, and those taking anticoagulant medicines. Massage should not be applied to wounded areas. Developing specific and evidence-based protocols for applying MBTs in specific conditions or in combination with currently accepted and applied medical procedures is considered a vital goal of future research in MBM. The biological pathways and system or cellular mechanisms of these mind-body interventions should be determined. If these mechanisms could be better understood and specific and evidence-based protocols determined, mind-body medicine will gain greater acceptance in the medical field and have more frequent application by medical practitioners to benefit the many needful patients.