Introducing integrative integrated migraine care (IIMC): A model and case presentation

IntroductionChronic migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders. Although different complementary therapies are available, few are integrated into standard patient care.ConceptThe Department of Integrative Medicine at the University of Duisburg-Essen offers integrative integrated migraine care (IIMC); reimbursed by a large German statutory health insurance company. Treatment options include complementary therapies such as Traditional European naturopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (e.g. acupuncture, herbal medicine) and Mind/Body therapy, delivered in inpatient, outpatient and day care settings.CasesThree patients, treated with IIMC in the above context, are presented here. Each received different treatments to meet their individual needs. IIMC may be effective in the short term for patients who do not make lifestyle changes, and possibly effective in the longer term for those who do.ConclusionIIMC appears to indicate positive effects for treating headache and migraine. Further studies and randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm these results.