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Alternative medicine: musculoskeletal system.

This article is intended to be an entry-level review of the holistic approach to musculoskeletal disorders. Conventional and alternative theories of pathophysiology and common alternative therapies will be discussed. The holistic approach entails looking beyond individual physical conditions and disorders, and attempting to identify imbalances (structural, environmental, or emotional) that underlie physical manifestations of disease. Conventional medicine usually looks at clinical symptoms such as the disease itself, while the holistic approach sees clinical symptoms as a sign of imbalance. Conventional therapy is usually aimed at removing the clinical signs (such as pain) rather than improving overall health and balance. The holistic practitioner attempts to bring a patient back into balance, enabling the patient to re-establish homeostasis and health. The holistic approach encompasses a broader scope, incorporating diet, nutrition, weight, activity, lifestyle, supplements, anti-inflammatories, emotional aspects, and owner interactions. Why consider a holistic approach for musculoskeletal disorders? Current conventional therapy for many chronic diseases, such as osteoarthritis (OA) and intervertebral disc disease, are limited to suppressing or minimizing pain and inflammation rather than improving overall health, slowing further degeneration, or improving joint health. The holistic approach attempts to address these issues. As veterinarians, we often let basic concepts such as weight loss, exercise, physical therapy, and owner counseling go unaddressed. Although covered under "alternative therapies," these concepts are hardly alternative and are often crucial to successful therapy.