CSPH5303

This course will provide an overview of complementary and integrative healing (CIH) practices for pain management. In the US, chronic pain impacts over one third of the population and affects more individuals than heart disease, diabetes, and cancer combined. Similar to other chronic conditions, populations marginalized by race, ethnicity, income, older age, disability, and other factors, experience a disproportionate amount of pain-related burden. While there is a wide range of conventional medical treatments available to manage pain, many have demonstrated modest effectiveness at best and are associated with troublesome side effects. Of critical concern is the endemic problem of opioids associated with misuse, addiction, and fatal overdose. Further, the most common medical treatments are predominantly focused on the physical aspects of pain, failing to take into account patients’ psychosocial needs which are critical for successful pain management. CIH approaches have a growing evidence base to support their use, particularly for pain management. Importantly, most address pain and overall health from a whole person or biopsychosocial perspective offering an important opportunity to address gaps in conventional pain care.

This course will introduce students to the theories, mechanisms, use, effectiveness, and safety of commonly used CIH practices. The relationship of CIH approaches to contemporary views and research regarding pain, health and healing, placebo effects, supportive alliances and accessible delivery formats (e.g. telehealth and group interventions) will also be explored. Through reading, reflection, discussion, and critical appraisal, students will develop the necessary skills to critically appraise and 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. Examples of 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).

Prerequisite: jr or sr or grad, or instructor consent

Every Fall