The term “alternative medicine” was originally coined to describe various health care approaches—from massage to homeopathy—not usually taught in Western medical schools. It has been replaced with “complementary medicine” since Americans rarely use these methods to the exclusion of conventional medicine. Instead, they are most often used in conjunction with (“complementing”) treatments such as surgery and drugs. The National Institutes of Health now refer to this approach as “complementary/alternative medicine” or CAM.
“Integrative” medicine is the combination of conventional and complementary medicine. It combines modern or Western medicine, which primarily investigates and treats physical symptoms, with complementary practices that include the inner healing processes of mind and spirit. This approach supports the body’s healing abilities through nutrition, physical activity, relaxation, and social and spiritual connections. Treatment plans offer personalized approaches—for example, combining the use of surgery and medications with nutritional supplements and stress reduction techniques.
It is our belief that integrative medicine is the optimal, most thorough approach to health because it combines the best of all worlds and draws from all knowledge and wisdom. Its focus on healthy lifestyle and prevention, in addition to healing from illness or injury, make integrative approaches relevant to everyone.
For those who want to learn more about integrative health, we invite you to call us at (415) 600-HEAL between Monday and Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 PM (Pacific Time) or to email us. We can guide you to choices you can make and actions you can take.
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