January is Integrative Health Month. It raises awareness of the need for collaborative care among various disciplines to treat the whole person instead of a symptom-only approach.
Integrative health uses an evidence-based approach to treating a patient’s mind, body, and soul. Because physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs are all involved, integrative health combines these therapies.
The relationships between you and your healthcare providers are important in integrative health. You are equal partners in your healing process, as integrative health aims for well-coordinated care among different providers and specialists.
A variety of healthcare providers delivers care through integrative health, including:
- Physicians
- Chiropractic doctors
- Holistic mind-body psychotherapists
- Acupuncturists
- Chinese herbal therapists
- Tai chi practitioners
- Yoga practitioners
- Massage therapists
- Nutritionists
- Chefs (culinary medicine)
Integrative health physicians don’t replace your primary care provider or specialist. They work with all members of your healthcare team to heal your mind, body, and spirit. Their expertise lies in preventing and managing chronic diseases not in treating acute medical problems. You should see your primary care or emergency medicine physician for acute and medical emergencies.
Many people can benefit from integrative health including those who are healthy. People with chronic or complex conditions may especially find the approach helpful. Integrative health can help you find relief for many medical conditions, including:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Acute and chronic pain
- Breathing disorders
- Headaches and migraines
- Cancer and cancer-related side effects
- Chronic fatigue
- Cold/flu symptoms
- Digestive disorders
- Infertility
- Menopausal symptoms
- Menstrual issues
- Mental and emotional health issues
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Sleep issues
Integrative health techniques support the body’s natural ability to heal. They help reduce stress and promote a state of relaxation that leads to better health. Integrative health can help you achieve optimal health when you engage in your own healing and feel empowered to make lifestyle changes. Adding integrative health to your healthcare routine can help you regain control of your well-being.
To learn more about Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s integrative health services, events, or classes, or to schedule an appointment, please call us at (718) 206-5675.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.