Improvement of Medically Unexplained Symptoms Through Open Dialogue–Based Reflecting Practices in a General Medicine Clinic: A Case Report

Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are common in primary care and are often influenced by psychological distress and negative medical experiences. A woman in her early thirties presented with chronic abdominal discomfort and severe anxiety despite repeated normal medical evaluations. She attended seven outpatient visits incorporating an Open Dialogue (OD)–based reflecting process involving a family member. Alternating dialogues and structured reflecting conversations facilitated externalization of concerns, improved mutual understanding, and emotional stabilization. This case suggests that OD–based reflecting practices may serve as a useful clinical option for selected patients with MUS in general outpatient care.