As a Physician I do recognize the benefits to prayer…but I don’t understand mechanics or it’s applications?

Note: I don’t post here in religion, I am a regular in Health but I would like your views on this subject)

I am a orthopedic surgeon who concentrates exclusively on treating problems with twist, hand, arm and shoulder for patients of all ages for a variety of medical conditions. I have a multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and treatment.

On with my question:

I have seen three patients through referral in the past two weeks with (3) different conditions. (1) Clavicle fracture (2) Dupuytren’s Contracture disease (3) Ganglion Cysts/w deQuervain’s Tendinitis.

All three cases were advanced in nature. Nothing new here I have seen all of these at least 100 times in the past 3-4 years. I recommend and proceeded with treated as prescribed by the American Academy of Orthopaedics and that am in complete agreement.

With my experience in these cases I know the outcome. If we are lucky we might see somewhere between a 15% to 50% improvement over a course of 1-2 years.

The distinguishing facts about all (3) cases were they all had people(s) “praying for them”.

Am I making a claim or even a statement…..no, I am not!

But the results are as follows:

Patient (A) 4 weeks of treatement and shows no signs off a Clavicle Fracture. Patient also reports that she had no doubt of a religious healing

Patient (B) Same thing in 6 weeks

Patient (C) Within 1 week

I’m talking GONE!

I am not a religious man nor do I endorse any religions.

But I would like your view point on how, why….what?
MsMinger: I reconize any prayer/postive thinking or actions. You calling me a “liar” says more about you than it does about be however!
CindyCom: Thanks for your answer. And yes I have seen those rather conflicting report(s). You may find it more interesting as to the author of those reports are.
SHoward: Yes, your right! Many studies prove that to be true
Helo hallowi: I would suggest you re-read my post and re-read your own and maybe see your glaring contridictions. I offered no endorsement and said so
MS. Minger: I do agree that you are in deed in need off professional help…however the kind you would require is out of my expertise.
daedeia: Thank you for your answer and experience. Have you seen many cases of prayer/results
afie: I will take that advise. Thanks for your thoughful, intelligent answer!

Good luck!