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Pain often results from conditions like obesity or imbalanced ergonomics, which can cause asymmetry in the body's structure and excessive stress loading over time. This can lead to arthritis and pain. Without treatment or a change in lifestyle, permanent damage can result. Alternative or complementary therapies can reverse these processes and effectively reduce pain. "Ideally, the source of neck and back problems should be addressed as soon as symptoms arise," says Dr. Yao. "This often requires lifestyle changes, and, if instituted early enough, can typically avert the need for surgery." ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture is one complementary therapy offered at the Graf Center for Integrative Medicine. This gentle, noninvasive holistic treatment uses fine needles along specific points on the body that stimulate the central nervous system. "Acupuncture has proven effective in relieving neck and back pain, as well as pain from headaches, sports injuries, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and cancer," says Dr. Tracy Scheller, medical director of integrative medicine at Englewood Health. "It can also promote weight loss by treating body imbalances and regulating hormones, appetite, and digestion. In addition, acupuncture can counter feelings of stress and anxiety by increasing endorphins, helping the body regulate heart rate and blood pressure. And it can help manage side effects of various conditions and treatments, including nausea, fatigue, mood swings, and infertility." NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING A patient's weight frequently contributes to pain. "Every extra pound we have on our frame transmits force and stress to every part of our spine," as well as to other parts of the body, says Dr. Yao. He encourages patients with a high body mass index (BMI) to consider weight loss, and recommends the Graf Center's nutritional counseling program, which has helped many patients lose weight and maintain a healthier diet. Sometimes a loss of just 10 to 15 pounds can significantly reduce pain and help patients avoid surgery. And if surgery is necessary, the center's nutritionists and dietitians can ensure that patients are eating healthy foods and getting all the nutrients they need to stay strong before the procedure—and to recover more easily afterward. Dr. Kevin Yao and Dr. Tracy Scheller at the Graf Center for Integrative Medicine at Englewood Health. V U E N J .C O M 44

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