Integrative Medicine
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PDF versionIntegrative medicine is a healing-oriented medicine that takes into account the whole person treating mind, body, and spirit, and lifestyle.
The patient and physician are partners in the use of complementary therapies to promote the healing process and improve quality of life.
Appropriate use of conventional and alternative therapies helps the body to heal faster and promotes health and prevention, not just treating an illness.
It emphasizes disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices for all. We collaborate with patients during cancer treatment to optimize their healing and assist cancer survivors to develop strategies to enhance lifelong cancer prevention.
Complementary therapies may help with:
- Pain and fatigue
- Arthritis and fibromyalgia
- Insomnia
- Chemotherapy-related nausea
- Stress reduction
- Anxiety and depression
- Asthma and emphysema
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
Treatment may include acupuncture, nutritional therapies, guided imagery, and massage. Call (315) 624-4600 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
Acupuncture
Hair thin disposable stainless steel needles are inserted into specific points of the body. A heat lamp and mild electrical stimulation may also be used to increase the benefit of the treatment
Used for
- Chronic back pain
- Headache
- Tennis elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Knee and shoulder pain
Nutritional therapies
Nutritional suggestions are offered as part of the initial consultation. Dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal preparations may also be suggested to optimize your health and promote healing.
Guided imagery
Mind-body therapies like guided imagery, meditation, breathwork, yoga, and stress reduction and relaxation exercises are commonly offered.
Kevin B. Mathews, MD, FAAFP, is medical director of the Integrative Medicine Program at The Regional Cancer Center. This program is a collaboration between Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Dr. Mathews is a graduate fellow of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, where Dr. Andrew Weil is the director. He received his training for medical acupuncture from UCLA Geffen School of Medicine. Dr. Mathews is a member of the American Holistic Medical Association and the American Academy of Pain Management.
Dr. Mathews works closely with local complementary providers on a referral basis: osteopathic manual therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, energy psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy and many others.
Insurance
Most health insurance companies pay for the initial office visit, but you may need a referral from your primary care provider. Acupuncture is not covered by most insurance plans, but there is a significant discount available with prompt payment. No-Fault and Worker’s Compensation may pay for acupuncture performed by a licensed physician with prior approval.
Scheduling an appointment
Anyone can schedule a consultation; however, your insurance may require a physician referral. Call (315) 624-4600.
Locations
Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Regional Cancer Center
Faxton Campus
1676 Sunset Avenue, Utica, New York
(315) 624-5390
Rome
91 Perimeter Road, Suite 130
Rome, New York
(315) 334-4805
