What is integrative medicine?

The term “integrative medicine” is in use a lot these days, leaving many people wondering what it really means. Simply put, integrative medicine is an approach to medical care that takes an individual’s body, mind and spirit into account, including their lifestyle. It’s an approach that draws upon both conventional and alternative therapies to prevent and treat. Click here to see our own Dr. Knipping discussing integrative medicine.

The principles of integrative medicine are based upon:

• The appropriate use of conventional and alternative methods to facilitate healing – typically a combination of modern medicine with complementary treatments, such as herbal medicine, yoga, acupuncture, massage, and stress reduction techniques
• A partnership between patient and practitioner where the goal is to treat the mind, body, and spirit concurrently
• Respect for and consideration of all factors influencing one’s health
• An approach to care that is open to conventional medicine and accepting of alternative therapies
• The use of natural, effective, less-invasive interventions where possible
• The training of health professionals as models of health and healing

Learn more by visiting the Canadian Integrative Medicine Association.