Study Reveals Impact of Pediatric Integrative Medicine in Health Care

A recent study from the University Hospitals Connor Whole Health has shed light on the benefits of pediatric integrative medicine services within a large health system. Conducted at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital, this program incorporates complementary therapies alongside conventional medical practices. This approach aims to address the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses among the pediatric population, such as obesity, diabetes, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and mental health concerns.

The study, published in the journal Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health, highlights how this integrative strategy can fill critical gaps in care for children facing complex health challenges. The pediatric population in the United States is seeing a significant rise in chronic health issues, prompting the need for a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

Initiated in 2020, the UH Connor Whole Health Pediatrics Program (UH CWHP) is a physician-led service designed to provide a broad spectrum of integrative health solutions. This retrospective analysis reviewed 2,677 outpatient visits involving 657 patients between March 2020 and September 2023. The findings reveal a diverse array of health challenges faced by these patients, including anxiety (59.2%), fatigue (44.4%), headaches (43.1%), and long-COVID symptoms (24.7%).

The study identified various treatment strategies employed within the program. Many patients with anxiety expressed a preference for non-drug interventions, engaging in cognitive reframing, breathing techniques, and dietary modifications. Dietary recommendations were particularly prevalent, with 61.8% of patients advised to make nutritional changes. Additionally, 49.9% of patients received probiotics, often linked to dysbiosis, while 30% presented with vitamin D deficiencies.

Dr. David W. Miller, Principal Investigator of the study and Medical Director of Pediatric Integrative Medicine, emphasized the program’s role in bridging service gaps. “Pediatric Integrative Medicine can fill key service gaps in existing health systems, particularly in regards to offering nonpharmacologic pain control methods and emotional regulation strategies,” he stated. His insights reflect the program’s focus on addressing the needs of patients with conditions like long-COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

The study also noted the significance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, with about 30% of participants utilizing Chinese herbal treatments. For patients dealing with myofascial pain, educational interventions aimed at self-care were highlighted as effective strategies to manage pain without over-reliance on medication. Techniques such as Gua Sha were frequently taught for at-home pain management.

In tackling sleep issues, the study found that disruptions were common, often exacerbated by screen use before bedtime. Patients received support through sleep education, referrals to sleep specialists, and treatments including melatonin and light therapy.

Dr. Kristi Artz, Vice President of UH Connor Whole Health, remarked on the comprehensive nature of the findings. “This study demonstrates the variety of integrative and lifestyle strategies that can be implemented to improve the health of our pediatric patients,” she noted. The program is currently working to incorporate patient-reported outcome measures to further enhance its understanding of the effects of pediatric integrative medicine on health outcomes.

The insights from this study contribute to a growing body of research advocating for integrative health models in pediatric care. As chronic illnesses continue to rise among children, approaches like those implemented at UH CWHP could serve as vital resources for improving health and well-being in this vulnerable population.