Complimentary & Integrated Health

conventional medicine

The predominant interventions practiced by medical doctors (MD), doctors of osteopathy (DO), and other health care professionals during the typical courses of treatment.

Western medicine

Conventional, or modern, medical practice.

complementary and integrative health (CIH)

Approaches health and wellness through a broader lens and is combined with, and ideally complementing, conventional medicine.

CIH’s multiple disciplines include manipulation of the body, energy, movement, traditional/indigenous/world therapies, and use of herbs, vitamins, and minerals.

Psychological complimentary approaches

focus on interactions between the mind, the body, and the brain to positively affect physical functions and promote health. Examples include relaxation, meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction, biofeedback, hypnosis, and prayer

Nutritional complimentary approaches

Include herbal therapies, dietary therapies, nutritional supplements, vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, and probiotics. These nonprescriptive products are generally sold over-the-counter and marketed as dietary supplements.​​​​​​​

Physical complimentary approaches

focus on hands-on the body's structures (bones, joints, soft tissue) and systems (circulatory, lymphatic). They include massage, chiropractic medicine, manipulative therapy, acupuncture, hot and cold therapy, and reflexology.​​​​​​​

Movement-based therapies (complimentary)

Movement-based therapies involve promoting wellness by incorporating movement and mindfulness simultaneously. Examples include the Feldenkrais Method, Pilates, tai chi, and qigong.

• Other types of complementary approaches to health

traditional medical systems, also known as whole medical systems (Ayurveda, TCM) that have developed over time and in different cultures, separate from conventional medicine practices. Traditional healing is based on indigenous knowledge, theories, beliefs, and experiences. More contemporary practices, such as homeopathy and naturopathy, have also evolved as alternative systems of care in recent years.

• Combined approaches include yoga, mindful eating, and dance, art, or music therapy.​​​​​​​

HOLISM

Treats the person as a whole, considering physical, emotional, social, cultural, spiritual, and environmental factors

progressive relaxation

Relies on a systematic progression of tensing and relaxing groups of muscles.

meditation

Eastern or spiritual techniques where an individual focuses attention on their body and clears the mind of normal streaming thoughts to create a state of physical relaxation, mental calmness, and psychological balance. Several applications, including mindfulness, Transcendental Meditation, and spiritual meditation.

mindfulness

A regulation of self by paying attention to, being open to, and orienting immediate experiences to the present moment; being in the moment. Also refers to meditation that uses methods of breathing, guided imagery, and other practices to reduce stress, and relax the mind and body.

mindfulness

A regulation of self by paying attention to, being open to, and orienting immediate experiences to the present moment; being in the moment. Also refers to meditation that uses methods of breathing, guided imagery, and other practices to reduce stress, and relax the mind and body.

guided imagery

Involves relaxation through visualization of images to free the body of specific illnesses or conditions.

aroma therapy

any different scents are used for relief from insomnia, anxiety, depression, muscular soreness, respiratory issues, urinary incontinence, joint problems, or for aesthetic purposes

When used with massage therapy or acupuncture, particular scents can stimulate specific responses such as relaxation, reduced anxiety, and decreased pain. Studies have found significant reductions of anxiety with inhalation of lavender oil, and tests of inhalation of lemon, ginger, lavender, and peppermint oil showed positive effects in reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Acupuncture

can treat nociceptive and neuropathic pain, nausea, anxiety, fatigue, increase well-being. helps sleeplessness, depressive symptoms, temperature regulation disturbances, and dry mouth.

Acupressure

has been found to reduce anxiety by altering neurotransmitter levels and regulating the nervous system. It stimulates neurochemical release, such as serotonin, to ease emotional discomfort. Acupressure applied to the ear reduces sympathetic activity, improving heart rate variability, decreasing the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, and promoting relaxation.

Hypnosis or hypnotherapy

, refers to an altered state of consciousness achieved through relaxation and focused attention to suggestions made by a hypnotist, also called a hypnotherapist.

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy

which uses slow-frequency electromagnetic currents without thermal effects, shows promise for pain relief and improved physical function in people with nonspecific low back pain
PEMF therapy is becoming a recognized nonpharmacological option for pain management and functional recovery. 

Feldenkrais Method

Developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, this technique focuses on mindful movements to improve the body’s ability to learn movement and to decrease pain intensity.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a method of massaging or manipulating the reflex system of the feet and hands to positively influence the body’s functions related to pain, stress, and other dysfunctions. Anatomical charts guide the practitioner to the different areas of these extremities that correspond to the body’s anatomy. Through targeted massage, the practitioner can help to reduce stress, regulate the nervous system, promote circulation, improve physical flexibility, aid in weight loss, delay aging, and improve health.

homeopathy

A system of theoretical medical practices that any substance can produce a disease state in a healthy person and that any substance can provide treatment for a person who has the disorder. Ingredients in homeopathic remedies are often derived from plants, animals, and minerals.

Ayurveda

An ancient Indian medical system based on harmony and balancing the mind, body, spirit to lead to health, contentment, and removing substances from the body that can cause disease.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

A whole medical system that originated in China and is still widely practiced. Herbal medicines are the key component of TCM.
herbal medicine
Kampo

A traditional medicine system developed in Japan with origins in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Unani

is an ancient healing tradition that provides a variety of natural healing treatments. Unani’s origins can be traced back to when ancient Greek texts were translated into Arabic. Unani focuses on holistic health and views well-being through a lens of harmony among the four humors—blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile—as well as each person's unique constitution (Mizaj). Unani doctors work to restore this balance using personalized approaches that include medication, dietary changes, therapeutic routines, and sometimes surgery. Herbal remedies are central to Unani treatments, with numerous plant-based formulas designed to help manage different health problems.

naturopathy

European health care and medical practices that evolved from traditional and alternative medical systems in the 19th century. The theory is that a healing power, the body, establishes, maintains, and then restores health through the support of diet, supplements, exercise, homeopathy, medicinal plants, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

functional medicine

A biology-based approach that focuses on the root cause of disease. It systemically identifies the many causes and conditions contributing to dysfunctional health.

13 essential vitamins

Water soluble: vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins.

vitamins B₁ (thiamine), B₂ (riboflavin), B₃ (niacin), B₅ (pantothenic acid), B₆ (pyridoxine), B₇ (biotin), B₉ (folic acid), and B₁₂ (cyanocobalamin).

Fat soluble: vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Magnesium

Required for bone formation, protein metabolism, neuromuscular function, and glucose regulation; deficiency is common in chronic illness and older adults.

Calcium

The most plentiful mineral in the body, with 99% stored in bones and teeth; supports metabolism, endocrine function, and cell signaling.

Iron

Essential for red blood cell production and oxygen transport; deficiency leads to anemia and developmental delays.

Potassium

Electrolyte supporting muscle and nerve function; abnormal levels can cause arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.

Sodium

Major extracellular cation essential for nerve impulses and muscle contraction; mostly obtained from processed foods.

Vitamin C

Functions as an antioxidant protecting cells from free radical damage (such as car emission pollutants), aids collagen in processing protein, strengthens immunity, and supports blood vessel integrity. Dietary sources include orange juice, citrus fruits, strawberries, and red and green peppers. Deficiency leads to scurvy or bleeding gums.

Vitamin B complex

A group of eight vitamins essential for growth, skin health, nerve and heart function, and red blood cell production. Abundant in vegetables, fruits, dairy, meat, legumes, eggs, liver, and fortified grains.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine)

Deficiency leads to beriberi, a disease affecting the muscles, brain, and digestive function.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

Deficiency causes stomatitis, dermatitis, and severe anemia, and is linked to iron-deficiency anemia and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.

Vitamin B3 (niacin, nicotinamide, or nicotinic acid)

Deficiency causes pellagra, which affects the neurological, gastrointestinal, and integumentary systems.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Deficiency can lead to dermatitis, enteritis, alopecia, and adrenal insufficiency.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, or pyridoxamine)

Deficiency can lead to dermatitis, microcytic anemia, seizures, depression, and confusion, and may increase a client's risk of hypertension and chronic diseases.

Vitamin B7 (biotin)

Deficiency can lead to myopathy, heart problems, anemia, and depression.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid)

A synthetic form of this vitamin recommended as a supplement during pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin or cobalamin)

Deficiency is associated with pernicious anemia, spinal cord degeneration, and macrocytic megaloblastic anemia.

Vitamin K in newborns

does not cross the placenta well or transfer in breastmilk in significant amounts. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a single intramuscular injection of vitamin K be given to all newborns to prevent deficiency bleeding.

Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K; absorbed across the small intestine with the aid of bile and lipids, then sequestered in adipose tissue and the liver.

Vitamin A

Synthesized from beta-carotene obtained from brightly colored fruits and vegetables; vital for immune function and blood cell formation. Sourced from liver, carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes.

Vitamin D

Formed endogenously upon ultraviolet light exposure to skin; promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus for skeletal mineralization. Sourced from oily fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy.

Vitamin E

A potent lipid-soluble antioxidant (principally alpha-tocopherol) that neutralizes free radicals, maintains vascular architecture, and supports immunity. Sourced from almonds, sunflower seeds, and wheat germ.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble nutrient essential for the synthesis of coagulation factors and normal bone metabolism. Found abundantly in green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli) and plant oils.

Antibiotic effect on B vitamins

Extended antibiotic regimens eliminate normal intestinal microflora responsible for endogenous nutrient synthesis, placing clients at risk for B-complex vitamin deficiencies.

Calcium

The most plentiful mineral in the body (with 99% stored in teeth and bones) that provides structural support and sends and receives messages regulating metabolism, vascular processes, membrane transport, and endocrine function. Dietary sources include animal products, sardines, leafy green vegetables, and legumes.

Sodium

The most abundant cation present in extracellular fluid; conducts electrical charges, facilitates muscle contraction, and assists in transmitting nerve impulses. Primarily obtained through salt in processed foods.

Potassium

An electrolyte conducting electrical charges that is essential for muscle and nerve function. Deficiencies can cause arrhythmias, nerve dysfunction, and muscle weakness, while excess levels can lead to cardiac arrest. Found in bananas, plums, raisins, spinach, and lima beans.

Magnesium

An electrolyte involved in glucose activation, bone formation, neuromuscular function, protein metabolism, blood pressure management, and heart rhythm regulation. Deficiencies are linked to advanced age, chronic alcohol use, diabetes mellitus, and Crohn's disease, while excessive intake can lead to adverse cardiovascular effects.

Iron

An essential mineral in red blood cells that transports oxygen and supports pediatric motor and cognitive development. Deficiency leads to fatigue, weakness, and anemia (a risk factor for low-birth-weight neonates). Sourced as heme iron (meat, fish, poultry) and nonheme iron (potatoes, spinach, beans).

Zinc

A trace mineral essential for bodily health; deficiency leads to depressed immunity and skin ulcers. Dietary absorption is lower when ingested in mixed plant-and-animal meals compared to animal-only meals.

Chromium

A trace element whose deficiency leads to insulin resistance in clients who have type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Copper

A trace mineral required in smaller quantities; an overabundance in the body can cause cardiovascular damage.

Iodine

A mineral commonly supplemented in table salt to prevent thyroid disorders.

Fluoride

A mineral added to drinking water and toothpaste to prevent dental plaque and caries.

Phosphorus

An inorganic element classified as a major (macro) mineral required for cell life and healthy bodily function.

Manganese

A trace mineral derived from soil and water that is required by the body in small amounts to maintain healthy functioning.

Selenium

A trace mineral required in small amounts to support cellular processes and overall health.