The body's dignity in integrative understanding of health in IBD – A hermeneutic approach to holistic care

Abstract

Background and purposeThis article will convey a new understanding of health and disease as a coherent dimension where the whole body interacts with its natural environment. This understanding is linked to a theoretical framework and illustrated by reference to research with patient experiences with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the disorders Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Creating ecological sustainability towards a greener health service where the body has a higher intrinsic value is a growing concern. Material and methodsThe methodological approach is hermeneutic, whereby the results of one's own research are interpreted and reconceived through reflection towards a new understanding. Themes from patients' experiences are interpreted in light of the theoretical frame of reference of this article in order to achieve a new understanding. ResultsThe further interpretation of the state-of-the-art article and empirical articles resulted in the following themes: 1. The lived body is understood as a coherent whole and a place of inner freedom. 2. The body in a lowered state of stress helps the patient to experience dignity and vitality. 3. An integrative understanding of health in terms of IBD brings dignity and wholeness to the body. ConclusionThis article sheds light on the connections between body knowledge, nutrition, dignity, and integrative understanding of health in acute and chronic IBD. In clinical practice, the connections may happen when giving the patient the opportunity for recovery by learning to listen to the body. Dignity is linked to both coping and expert help from clinically competent health professionals.