Which technique is commonly used in holistic nursing for pain management?

The selection of relaxation techniques such as deep breathing as a common practice in holistic nursing for pain management highlights the focus on treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms. Holistic nursing integrates physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions of health, recognizing that pain is not solely a physical experience but also involves psychological and emotional components.

Techniques like deep breathing are effective in promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing the body’s ability to cope with pain. These methods activate the body's relaxation response, which can decrease muscle tension, lower heart rates, and reduce stress hormones that often exacerbate pain. Additionally, incorporating such techniques empowers patients, helping them take an active role in their pain management and promoting a sense of agency over their health.

In holistic nursing, the approach often involves complementary practices that support well-being in a way that medication, surgical interventions, or exclusive physical therapy sessions may not fully encompass. These other options may address pain but typically focus on more conventional and often isolated treatments, which may not engage the full spectrum of a patient's physical and emotional needs, thereby limiting their effectiveness in holistic contexts.