What is Integrative Pediatrics?

With summer in full swing, you may be still recovering from the end of the school year festivities or in the midst of summer travels. Summer is a great time to have a reset and refocus on you and your family's health journey. We wanted to introduce a new age group and new face to Wellness Made EC with Dr. Jenny Kelly MD and Arkansas Integrative Pediatrics!

If you follow this blog regularly, you’re already familiar with the integrative approach to healthcare. Still, you may be curious about how this model is used when caring for pediatric patients.

One of the defining principles of Integrative Medicine is that the patient and practitioner are partners in the healing process.  When working with children, this means considering the child, their family structure and dynamics, their educational and recreational environments, and their peer relationships.  The level of autonomy evolves as children mature, but all children need to be age-appropriate contributors to their health plans. 

Many children will work with an integrative medical practitioner to address specific concerns.   These patients are seeking additional treatment options for ongoing conditions or would like to try treatments with fewer side effects and risks than is typical for pharmacologic approaches. Some of the most common things kids come to an Integrative Pediatrician for help with include acne, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, chronic constipation or diarrhea, depression, eczema, functional abdominal pain, headaches, painful periods, and stress management.

There is also value in establishing a relationship with an integrative pediatrician even if your child does not have considerable medical problems.  Children are often unaware of how daily habits impact their school lives, athletics, and relationships with peers, family members, and themselves.  Children and adolescents who work with an integrative pediatrician learn how all aspects of health are interrelated so that they develop the skills and knowledge to care for themselves now and in the future.

Considering the whole picture - environment, diet, movement, relationships, stress, emotional well-being - as we work to improve our wellness is applicable to the entire family - kids and adults alike. We hope to hear more from Dr. Kelly!

For more information about Arkansas Integrative Pediatrics, please go to www.arkansasintegrativepediatrics.com or email office@arkasnasintegrativepediatrics,com

If you not live in this vicinity you can look on websites like the American Board of Integrative Medicine offer directories of certified practitioners. Simply search “integrative doctor near me” for options in your vicinity. Please always check there credentials and reviews.You can also look on the Arizona Fellowship in Integrative Medicine Website and search.