CSPH5303: Pain Management and Evidence Based Complementary Health Approaches

This course will cover the evidence regarding effectiveness and safety of CIH practices, and the relationship of CIH to contemporary views of pain, health, and healing. There is a growing evidence base to support some complementary and integrative healing (CIH) approaches for pain management including yoga, mindfulness meditation, chiropractic, and others. In the US, chronic pain impacts over one third of the population and affects more individuals than heart disease, diabetes, and cancer combined. While there is a wide range of conventional medical treatments available to manage pain, many are only marginally effective and are associated with troublesome side effects. Of growing concerns is the endemic problem of opioids associated with misuse, addiction, and fatal overdose. Pain sufferers and health providers need effective and safe options for pain management. Some complementary and integrative healing (CIH) approaches have a growing evidence base to support their use, particularly for pain management. This course will introduce students to the theories, mechanisms, use, effectiveness, and safety of commonly used complementary and integrative healing practices. The relationship of CIH approaches to contemporary views and research regarding pain, health and healing, and placebo effects will also be explored. Through reading, reflection, discussion, and critical appraisal, students will develop the necessary skills to synthesize different forms of information, including research, to reach evidence-informed and balanced conclusions regarding CIH for managing pain, restoring function, and enhancing overall health and wellbeing. CIH approaches covered will include: whole systems (Traditional Chinese Medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, Ayurvedic Medicine, etc.); mind-body practices (contemplative and meditative practices; yoga, tai chi, Qigong, etc.); manipulative and body-based approaches (massage therapy, acupuncture, manipulation); and energy-based approaches (energy medicine, Reiki, therapeutic touch, healing touch). Upon completion of the course, students will have a foundational knowledge of CIH for pain management and the skills to critically appraise and determine the trustworthiness of different information sources. Prerequisite: Graduate or Professional program student.

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