How Dr. John Sarno’s mind-body treatment approach differs from conventional medical treatments

When it comes to treating physical health issues, there are two main approaches: conventional medical treatments and mind-body treatments.

Conventional medical treatments focus on diagnosing and treating specific symptoms or conditions, often using medication or surgery.

On the other hand, mind-body treatments like those pioneered by Dr. John Sarno aim to address the underlying psychological and emotional factors that contribute to physical health issues, using techniques such as journaling, mindfulness,  and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Treating physical symptoms

Conventional medical treatments tend to be more focused on treating the physical symptoms of a health issue, rather than the underlying psychological factors that may be contributing to it.

For example, if you have chronic pain, a doctor may prescribe pain medication or recommend surgery to address the source of the pain. While these treatments can be effective in managing the symptoms of the pain, they don’t necessarily address the psychological factors that may be contributing to it, such as stress, anxiety, or depression.

In contrast, mind-body treatments focus on addressing these underlying psychological factors, often through practices like mindfulness meditation, yoga, or talk therapy. By addressing the root causes of the pain, mind-body treatments can often provide more long-lasting relief than conventional medical treatments alone.

More holistic approach

Mind-body treatments tend to be more holistic in nature, taking into account your overall physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Conventional medical treatments often focus narrowly on specific symptoms or conditions, without taking into account your overall health and wellbeing.

If you have high blood pressure, a doctor may prescribe medication to lower it, without necessarily addressing other lifestyle factors that may be contributing to it, such as stress or lack of exercise.

Mind-body treatments take into account the psychological and emotional factors. By taking a more comprehensive approach to your health and wellbeing, mind-body treatments can help you achieve greater overall health and a higher quality of life.

Active participation

Mind-body treatments involve active participation on your part, whereas conventional medical treatments tend to be more passive.

If you have chronic pain, a doctor may prescribe medication that you take as directed, without necessarily requiring any active participation on your part.

Mind-body treatments require you to actively engage in practices like journaling, meditation, or talk therapy, in order to address the underlying psychological factors that may be contributing to your health issue.

By taking an active role in your own health and wellbeing, you are more empowered and in control of your health.

Effective treatments

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of mind-body treatments for a wide range of physical health issues.

A study published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” in 2014 found that mindfulness meditation was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with chronic pain.

Another study published in the “Journal of Clinical Psychology” in 2015 found that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with chronic pain.

Through active participation in your own health and wellbeing as well as addressing underlying factors of your health issues, mind-body treatments can promote a higher level of health and well-being.

Sarno Clinic advances the Dr. John Sarno method for healing chronic pain.