Integrative medicine combines modern medicine with complementary health services – such as acupuncture and massage – to heal both biological and psychological problems. Integrative medicine can be beneficial for treating a wide range of conditions, including those that haven't responded to typical treatments.
Integrative medicine may include botanical and nutritional supplements, Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, Gua Sha, massage, journaling, relaxation and breathing techniques, guided imagery, spiritual support, and lifestyle modifications, such as stress management, nutrition, exercise and sleep.
The Integrative Medicine department at Baylor Scott & White consists of doctors of Chinese Medicine, licensed acupuncturists and licensed massage therapists who treat patients throughout the Greater Austin Region.
The team works with specialists and primary care physicians throughout our system to create a tailored treatment plan for each patient based on their current condition. Acupuncture and massage therapy are non-referral based modalities. Therefore, anyone, whether they are a patient of Baylor Scott & White or not, can get treatment. We are in network with most commercial insurance providers and will work with you to determine insurance coverage.
A popular form of integrative medicine is acupuncture, which is highly effective as a stand-alone treatment but also works well together with your traditional physician care and/or therapy.
Acupuncture relies on the system of traditional Chinese medicine to balance the body and restore health in patients with a diverse range of concerns. Acupuncture points fall along meridians (nerve pathways) and therefore create a systemic effect. The insertion of these fine, solid, single-use acupuncture needles typically produces no pain response, and most patients note that treatments are extremely relaxing.
Because it has a systemic effect and balances the entire body, acupuncture is a great treatment option for health concerns that appear to have no cause or remedy. In addition, many patients notice positive changes not part of their initial complaint, such as more restful sleep, increased energy, improved digestion and decreased stress.
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Herbal medicine is a natural yet powerful approach that involves formulating a combination of herbs that will best suit an individual’s path to healing.
Our providers work closely with patients and their physicians to choose safe and effective options for a wide range of conditions. Herbal supplements, including Chinese herbal formulas are often used in conjunction with acupuncture or can be used as a standalone treatment option.
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Massage is believed to be one of the oldest forms of medical care, dating back to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Today, the term massage therapy is used to describe the manipulation of soft tissue—muscles, skin and/or tendons—by fingertips, hands, fists, elbows and even feet to promote health and healing.
At Baylor Scott & White Health, massage therapy is part of our integrative medicine approach in which therapists work together with primary care providers and specialists to identify dysfunction and develop individualized treatment plans. Many people view massage as a luxury, but it can act as more than simple relaxation. Routine therapeutic massage—especially within the context of a treatment plan—can contribute to sustained good health and increased function.
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