In the not-too-distant past, many doctors dismissed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a pseudoscience. Over the past several years, the evidence to validate the use of TCM for the treatment of many health conditions is growing. Dr. Christopher Smith, a physician at UCF Health, was intrigued at the benefits it brought to patients that he observed. After residency, he pursued an education that blends a variety of healing modalities with modern, conventional medicine, therefore, embracing patient care that considers the mind, body, and spirit.

In addition to training in medical acupuncture, Dr. Smith completed a two-year residency training in Integrative Medicine under the direction of the nation’s top Integrative Medicine specialist, Dr. Andrew Weil at the University of Arizona. He later joined UCF Health at its newest location in Lake Nona, where there is a need for access to this type of service.

What is integrative medicine?

“Integrative medicine blends the best of what modern science and medicine provides, while introducing appropriate therapies, such as diet, exercise, supplements and acupuncture to achieve optimal health. The objective is to treat the whole person, not just their ailment.”

What made you want to practice integrative medicine?

“I saw that there are benefits to appropriate use of supplements, exercise, acupuncture, and using food as medicine,” Dr. Smith said. “But I also see the value in pharmaceuticals when appropriately used. I started researching other healing modalities and all the benefits it brings to patients when they are motivated to make lifestyle changes. By combining the traditional knowledge from other parts of the world with modern medicine, I believe the best health care can be achieved.”

How do you use medical acupuncture in your practice?

“First, I learn a lot about the patient and what is bothering them. Then, through discussions we decide if acupuncture would be beneficial to them. Common ailments that can be treated by acupuncture include things like joint pain, asthma, physical issues relating from stress, digestive disorders, sleep problems, back and neck pain, and more.”

How do you use supplements and herbs in caring for your patients?

“I look at the scientific evidence on different herbs and supplements to decide how it can help my patients. I always advise patients to not start taking any supplements, vitamins, or herbs without talking to your doctor first. You may cause an interaction with medications you are taking or aggravate an existing condition, so it’s best to talk to someone who knows how to check for these things first.”

What things do you treat with integrative medicine?

“Integrative medicine requires a motivated patient who wants to make lifestyle changes to better their health with less reliance on pharmaceutical medication. I can help with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, emotional wellness, and arthritis. But I can also help with respiratory infections and the common cold. Integrative medicine encompasses a broad base of medicine, just like a traditional family physician, but with a slightly different perspective.”

UCF Health is the College of Medicine’s physician practice, offering primary and specialty care to the community. Its newest office is located in Lake Nona at the corner of Narcoossee Road and Tavistock Lakes Boulevard. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Visit UCFHealth.com for more information, or call (407) 266-DOCS to schedule an appointment.