Guest Editorial - ABS Newsletter

Guest Editorial
Jay Sandweiss D.O.
American Back Society Teaching Fellow

As we enter the 21st century, an evolution of consciousness is occurring in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal disease and dysfunction. Fresh ideas, new research data and exciting technologies are influencing the way we provide health care for our patients. From the Human Genome Project to PET scanning, from IDET procedures to acupuncture, from psychoneuroimmunology and neurotransmitters to glucosamine sulfate, we are all giving witness to the new emerging paradigm in healing: Integrative Medicine.

Integrative Medicine is a holistic approach to patient care that integrates conventional medical practice with evidence-based complementary medical interventions. Many of you have read The Lancet (January 2001) and know of the well-documented effects of glucosamine sulfate for the treatment of osteoarthritis. There is mounting evidence that diet, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, acupuncture, exercise, and many mind/body therapies can positively influence our health: particularly neuromusculoskeletal health. This information can be woven into the existing medical fabric, to produce a health care delivery system that responds to the needs of the whole person.

The American Back Society is an exemplary organization that has consistently strived to bring together people from diverse specialties, disciplines and professions. It is perhaps the premier society offering interdisciplinary training in spinal care.

We look forward to your attendance at this year's ABS Symposium, at the Hilton Walt Disney World, Orlando Florida, December 5th-8th 2001. The program promises to be stimulating, practical, and exciting.