Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Commonly Asked About Integrative Holistic Medicine

What is integrative medicine?

Integrative medicine is a patient-centered approach to healthcare that addresses the full range of physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual, and environmental influences that can impact an individual’s health. This medical perspective considers the patient’s unique conditions, needs, circumstances and environment, then uses the most appropriate interventions. These therapies are taken from an array of scientific disciplines to not only heal illness and disease, but to help people achieve and maintain optimal health.

Will integrative medicine interfere with the treatment I’m getting from another medical provider?

No, it will not. The use of the word “integrative” is intentional, because this approach to care is designed to complement the treatment you are receiving from a physician. You may find that the integrative service(s) you receive will dramatically reduce symptoms from which you are suffering, perhaps easing pain and adding to a feeling of well-being.

Are integrative medicine therapies based on science?

University Hospitals is a teaching hospital, so the therapies offered here at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health are ones backed by scientific research. The amount of research on mind/body approaches varies widely depending upon the practice. For example, many rigorous studies have been conducted on acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, and these practices hold promise in benefiting pain management.

Do these treatments do more than just help you relax?

While integrative therapies may add to feelings of relaxation, that is not their main purpose – rather, these treatments seek to directly address the patient’s condition(s). Again, the efficacy of therapies utilized in integrative medicine are built upon scientific evidence.

What makes massage therapy different from getting a massage from a spa/chain business?

Massages are frequently relaxing, but massage therapy as an integrative medicine technique has a different focus. This hands-on therapy mobilizes and releases muscle and connective tissue to enhance the function of those tissues and to increase the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid, while also promoting relaxation and well-being.

What if my primary physician doesn’t believe in integrative medicine?

Perhaps your physician is only minimally familiar, or not familiar at all, with integrative medicine. We do offer physicians a referral form that is designed to provide details on the services we offer. However, a referral isn’t required to use our services. We recommend that you contact us directly to find out more about how a particular therapy can help you, or you can make an appointment for an integrative medicine consultation.

If I already know which treatments I want, would I need an integrative medicine consultation?

You might not need a consultation; however, many seeking integrative medicine therapies might want to know more about which therapies could best benefit them and have a hard time deciding where exactly to start. For example, perhaps you feel that acupuncture might help you with a certain kind of pain, but an integrative medicine consultation might first recommend myofascial release therapy instead of acupuncture. A consultation can save you time, provide you with a deeper understanding of integrative medicine therapies, and ensure that you receive the most appropriately suited treatment.

How is yoga therapy different from taking a yoga class at my gym or studio?

Yoga classes are for a group, whereas yoga therapy is more individualized. It adapts the practice of yoga to address specific conditions in a therapeutic manner. Yoga therapy is offered in a one-on-one setting so that the therapist can create individually-tailored practices for at-home practice. This generally involves postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. Often, yoga therapy is especially beneficial for those unable to participate in a regular group class or have specific concerns (e.g. back pain, hypertension, asthma, etc.) Yoga therapy is designed to help individuals progress towards their personal visions of heightened health and well-being.

Do you take insurance?

Most insurance plans are accepted for Chiropractic, Integrative Occupational Therapy (physician referral required), Integrative Medicine Consultation, and the Osteopathic Sports Rehabilitation Clinic. The UH medical plan is accepted for acupuncture for certain approved conditions. Other services are self-pay, for which credit card, debit card and HSA/FSA are accepted.

How can I learn more about integrative medicine at UH?

You can learn more about UH Connor Whole Health through this website. Here, we also provide links to detailed information on our services, practitioners, and other topics in integrative medicine. If you have specific questions, please feel free to call us at 216-285-4070.