Complementary Medicine

Complementary medicine uses alternative methods of healing, often based in nature, and works alongside traditional Western medicine. At A Woman’s Wellspring, experienced OB/GYN and women’s health specialist Stephanie Taylor, MD, PhD, uses both types of techniques to address your whole-body wellness needs. Appointments are scheduled for a full hour, so you’re never rushed and always have time to get truly personalized health care. Call the Carmel, California, office or book your appointment online now.

What is complementary medicine?

Complementary medicine refers to integrative health care practices and therapies, like herbal supplements and massage, that aren’t traditionally included within Western medicine. Dr. Taylor then blends these approaches with Western medicine to provide complete wellness care. 

A large body of evidence suggests that complementary medicine can have highly beneficial effects, and it’s steadily growing in popularity as a result. 

A recent study from the National Poll on Healthy Aging showed that two-thirds of adults used some form of complementary medicine as preventive care or treatment in the last year. 

What are the options in complementary medicine?

Complementary medicine includes many different therapeutic modalities, such as: 

• Herbal therapies and supplements
• Relaxation exercises
• Nutrition counseling
• Supportive counseling
• Biofeedback
• Acupuncture
• Massage
• Tai chi 
• Qigong

With decades of experience in many areas of complementary medicine, Dr. Taylor has developed her own unique approaches to help patients learn, grow, heal, and thrive through the principles of complementary medicine. 

What are the benefits of complementary medicine?

Complementary medicine focuses on your whole-body wellness and also offers a range of specific solutions for health and wellness problems. Some of the benefits of complementary medicine can include:

• Pain relief 
• Improved brain health/help preventing cognitive decline
• Boosted mood
• Better sleep
• Improved flexibility
• Improved mobility
• Heightened spirituality
• Decreased muscle tension

Complementary medicine also works with Western medicine to provide a well-rounded health care plan. 

How does complementary medicine treat chronic disease?

Chronic disease and long-term health issues may require prescription medications. For example, if you have Type 1 diabetes, you must use insulin to survive. Many people with high blood pressure (hypertension) need medication too. 

But, needing medication doesn’t rule out supportive complementary treatments. So, if you’re taking blood pressure medication, the complementary approach might also add in nutrition counseling, exercise, herbal therapies, and relaxation exercises. 

Dr. Taylor creates customized treatment plans during office visits. All office visits are scheduled for 60 minutes to ensure plenty of time to discuss options, ask questions, and learn more about how you can make the most of your health. 

A Woman’s Wellspring focuses on unhurried, in-depth, and personalized whole-person medicine. There’s no other practice like it, evidenced by how many of Dr. Taylor’s patients have been with her for over 30 years. If you’re ready to learn more, call the office or click online scheduling to request your appointment now.