The wise use of integrative medicine requires a balanced understanding of complementarities and conflicts. Methods include imagery, relaxation training, biofeedback, meditation, hypnosis, hypnotherapy, autogenic training, breath therapy, psychotherapy, and group therapy. Energy Medicine works with the energy system of the body or treats it with energies introduced from outside. Manipulative Therapies use the manipulation of soft tissue or the musculoskeletal system to promote healing. Methods include chiropractic, osteopathy, massage therapy, bodywork, physical therapy and hydrotherapy.
Surgery includes all invasive surgical procedures.
Herbal Medicine includes Western herbs, Chinese Herbs, Ayurvedic herbs, and aromatherapy. Nutritional Medicine includes specific dietary therapies and nutritional supplementation. An integrative approach involves a thoughtful inquiry into the benefits of each of these forms of treatment for a given health condition. Priorities are set after careful consideration of their relative contributions, their complementarities , and any potential conflicts . An individualized plan is tailored which follows the priorities while also taking into account the person's unique circumstances and resources, so that he or she is most likely to follow through.