Over medicalising common conditions

In my working career both within the NHS and private practice I have been privileged to see many people from all walks of life who I have managed to help. Often people come with a medial diagnosis, like 'arthritis' or 'slipped disc' or 'trapped nerve' which can be helpful in thinking about the condition but often very misleading as to what you can do about it.

The 'medical' term can get in the way of thinking about remedy. By taking a detailed case-history we can build a picture of how a condition came about, how it is made worse or helped, and most importantly how it can be treated or managed.

This often involves working with a therapist for a while, but will also mean a lot of self-care. Most of this will be simple but effective, and not involve further medical intervention.

As we dispense of medical terminology we can demystify the condition and match condition to treatment in an empowered way.

I have seen too nany people resorting to surgery, ir long term use of medication before more conservative or holistic options have been tried.

Alternatively have seen many people who I have helped avoid surgery, or long term use of pain killers; and again helped many people who have had radical surgery and have developed post-operative reactions.

In either case early intervention focussed on holistic (movement, diet, nutrition, rest, meditation, hands-on treatment) is useful before embarking on a the medicalisation route.

Thinking holistically with patients allows them to assert control over their condition which is a good indicator of successful outcomes.

I think this applies across both physical and mental conditions, and in the long run benefits patients and practitioner.

This is a big issue, but does deserve some consideration before considering the treatment options possible.