The following is a list of some of the complementary and integrative health (CIH) approaches that are important for clinicians to know about. 

For more information about CIH, check out the “Implementing Integrative Health in Your Practice, Part III: Complementary and Integrative Health” overview.  The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) also has useful information for clinicians and patients alike at their website.  The Passport to Whole Health, frequently referenced here, can serve as a good general introduction to a number of different CIH approaches.

Complementary and Integrative Approaches

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Description: A type of therapy that involves an animal, other than a service animal, as a fundamental part of a person’s treatment.  Typically found within Recreational Therapy.

For More Information: “Animal-Assisted Therapies” tool on the UW Integrative Health website

Acupressure

Description: Similar to acupuncture, but pressure, instead of needles, is used on the body’s surface at specific points.  It is applied by hand, by elbow, or with various devices.  The intent is to stimulate the flow of energy within the body.

For More Information: Passport to Whole Health Chapter 18, “Whole Systems of Medicine” section on Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture

Description: A family of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical (meridian) points on the body using a various technique.  The acupuncture technique that has been most often studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with needles.