What is Integrative Medicine?
Integrative medicine is a broader approach to healthcare that focuses on the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. It combines conventional Western medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga. Integrative medicine also emphasizes the importance of prevention and empowering patients to take an active role in their own health. Integrative medicine seeks to create a personalized plan that addresses the patient’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs (2).
Key Principles of Integrative Medicine:
Holistic Healthcare: Integrative Medicine physicians recognize the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. It seeks to balance all aspects of a patient’s life.
Patient-Centered: Patients are active participants in their healthcare journey. Shared decision-making is encouraged, and treatments are tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Combination of Therapies: Integrative Medicine integrates conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, and mind-body practices.
Prevention and Wellness: Promoting health and preventing illness are central tenets. Integrative practitioners emphasize lifestyle modifications and preventive measures.
Common Therapies and Modalities in Integrative Medicine:
- Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese practice involving the use of thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body.
- CranioSacral Therapy, Chiropractic care, and others: Manipulation of the spine and musculoskeletal system to improve health.
- Mind-Body Practices: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and tai chi to enhance mental and emotional well-being.
- Nutritional Counseling: Guidance on dietary choices and supplements to support health.
- Herbal Medicine: The use of plant-based remedies to address various health concerns.
- Ayurveda & Traditional Chinese Medicine: Traditional systems of medicine that focus on holistic health and balance.
Learn more about Conditions We Treat: Autoimmune Disease
Benefits of Functional Medicine and Integrative Medicine
At CentreSpringMD, you can experience the benefits of both functional and integrative medicine. Our aim is to empower patients to take an active role in their own health and prevent future health problems.
Enhanced focus of care
Providers identify and address the root causes of diseases through advanced testing and personalized treatment plans in an effort to treat the whole person.
Advanced diagnostic approach
Thorough lab testing, including genetics and comprehensive biomarker assessments provide insight to guide your ideal treatment plan. Providers place a strong emphasis on patient history and clinical examinations.
Effective approach to chronic illness
With nearly 50% (and counting) of Americans suffering with 1 or more chronic health conditions, functional and integrative practitioners use methods proven to provide better outcomes and cost savings for both patients and the medical system (3,4).
Individualized treatment emphasis
Personalized nutritional and lifestyle interventions, often utilizing targeted supplements, in addition to conventional treatments using complementary therapies.
Diverse therapeutic modalities
A wide range of testing and diagnostics, help pinpoint underlying issues and biochemical imbalances.
Emphasis on prevention & wellness
By identifying early signs of dysfunction, providers emphasize overall wellness by supporting physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health.
Strong role of nutrition
Nutrition is a cornerstone, with a focus on individualized dietary plans and addressing nutritional deficiencies.
What to remember
Functional medicine and integrative medicine offer patients a more personalized, holistic approach to healing. Both approaches offer benefits for patients, including more effective treatment, better overall health, and an improved quality of life. If you are interested in exploring functional medicine or integrative medicine, schedule a consultation with a patient care coordinator to learn more about which treatment modalities can most benefit you.
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