| Integrative Pediatrics |
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Home page | About the practice | Biography | Homeopathy | Mind/Body medicine | Helpful resources | Patient feedback| Disclaimer Your child is a whole person, not a set of symptoms. Experience a new paradigm of medicine where your doctor understands how – with the right tools – your child can achieve a greater state of well-being. Dr. Seema Khaneja at Integrative Pediatrics empowers families and their children. She takes the time to listen to get the entire story. Integrative Pediatrics brings all the elements together:
Discover true collaboration – becoming an equal partner in your child’s health care – at Integrative Pediatrics.
When diagnosing a patient, Dr. Seema Khaneja listens. She asks questions – and listens to what you say. “One of my pediatric professors taught me that if I did not have a good idea of what was going on with my patient after taking the history, I needed to stop. Doing the physical exam and lab tests would not give me the answer. I needed to go back to my patient, because there were surely questions that I had not asked, or perhaps I had not listened to what was said. The history would give the diagnosis in most cases. The physical exam and lab tests would then confirm the diagnosis.” Her professor’s advice has served her well. What are the defining qualities of Dr. Khaneja’s practice? She listens to every concern. She takes her time in assessing her patients, taking their history and fully understanding the causes of their ailment – from both medical and mind-body standpoints. She aims to understand the whole child, in the context of their family and social environment. Parents are given choices and empowered to make their own decisions about their child’s treatment. Her approach appeals most to parents and caretakers who want to take an active role in their child’s healing. These parents understand that modalities that work with the body’s innate ability to heal may take longer than conventional approaches – but often will address the root cause of illness. Dr. Khaneja brings balance to medicine. As a board-certified pediatric doctor, she practices safe, conservative medicine. As a physician trained in homeopathy, she sees your child as a complete, unique person, addressing all aspects of their health. With more than a decade of pediatric experience, Dr. Khaneja uses all her expertise and knowledge to help you choose the best options for your child. She uses a variety of modalities, including homeopathy, relaxation, meditation and an Ayurvedic approach to diet and nutrition. Her gentle, patient and warm bedside manner helps your child relax and be as comfortable as possible throughout the consultation. A mother herself, she brings a sense of play and understanding of children into her professional work. Dr. Seema Khaneja treats children from birth to age 18. She sees children with a wide variety of medical and behavioral concerns including the following:
Referrals Fees Fees are set at an hourly rate for $125 per hour, with initial consults generally lasting about 1 ½ to 2 hours. Follow-ups are generally 30 to 45 minutes long. For chronic medical or behavioral concerns, follow-ups will be needed, usually scheduled monthly. Integrative Pediatrics accepts cash, checks and credit cards. Payment plans are available. Medical spending accounts can also be used to reimburse you for the cost of treatment. If you live outside the Rochester area, Dr. Khaneja may still be able to treat your child. While initial visits must be done in person, follow-up appointments may be completed by phone. To set up an appointment, and for any other information about the practice, please call (585) 271-2937.
Dr. Seema Khaneja’s earliest memories of medicine are of spending time with her great-grandfather in Northern India. He practiced Unani medicine, a traditional form of Indian herbal medicine – including pulse diagnosis, lifestyle modification, yoga and meditation. Throughout her years of medical training, Dr. Khaneja searched for a way to practice medicine that captured the essence of her great-grandfather’s approach. He helped many people – not only because of his knowledge of herbs, but because he truly listened to them, which in time revealed the cause of their illness. He truly walked his talk, using the same therapies for his own health that he recommended for his patients. Dr. Khaneja has studied many complementary approaches to health and healing, ranging from Ayurvedic medicine to Qi-gong therapy. She’s found that a combination of a healthy lifestyle, homeopathy and a practice of mindful awareness of the body and mind have helped her most in her own path of health and healing. This is what she shares with her patients. Dr. Khaneja graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City in 1992 and completed residency training in pediatrics at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, also in New York City, in 1996. She completed her board certification in pediatrics in 1996 and has been practicing general pediatrics since July 1996. Dr. Khaneja was listed as one of the “Best Doctors” in General Pediatrics in New York Magazine’s yearly issue of the Best Doctors in New York in 1998. She has also written several chapters on various medical topics for Attorney’s Textbook of Medicine (published by Lexis Nexis/Matthew Bender), including autism, battered child syndrome and psychological maltreatment of women and children. She has also reviewed and co-authored many other chapters on various medical topics including asthma, dermatitis, dyslexia, epiphyseal injuries and sleep disorders. Dr. Khaneja’s teaching experience includes:
Her training in complementary medicine includes: Homeopathy
Mind/body medicine
Qigong
Yoga
Hypnosis
Ayurvedic medicine
What is homeopathy? What is the role of the vital force in homeopathy? What conditions can homeopathy treat? How was homeopathy discovered? What is the Law of Similars? Who uses homeopathy? Is there any research to prove homeopathy is effective? How are remedies prepared? Are homeopathic remedies safe? Where can I get homeopathic remedies? What is a homeopathic session like? How long will my treatment last? How many follow-up appointments will I need? Why choose homeopathy?
What is homeopathy? Homeopathy is a system of medicine using highly diluted preparations of different plant, mineral and animal substances to heal many different types of illnesses. Developed by Samuel Hahnemann more than 200 years ago, it is based on the law of similars—that like cures like.
What is the role of the vital force in homeopathy? In his Organon of Medicine, Hahnemann writes that there is a spirit-like vital force that animates our bodies, maintaining “a harmony that obliges wonderment.” There is a vital, non-material, dynamic force that keeps us alive and healthy. When we experience disease, that vital force is in a state of untunement. We can sense when we—or our children—are out of tune. Whatever this source may be, it exists deep within us, creating health and disease. To help people heal, you must get to that source. Homeopathy works at that deeper level.
What conditions can homeopathy treat? Homeopathy can treat a wide variety of medical conditions including behavioral and mental health issues, many common acute illnesses, minor trauma and injuries, as well as various chronic conditions. Homeopathy is also a wonderful, gentle way to assist children who are basically healthy to maintain their overall health and well-being. Homeopathy can enhance a child’s immune functioning—children who are treated with homeopathy over some time tend to fall sick less often and their illnesses tend to be less severe and shorter in duration. How was homeopathy discovered? Homeopathy was discovered by Samuel Hahnemann. Born in Germany in 1755, Hahnemann was trained in various sciences including chemistry, botany, astronomy and meteorology. He authored The Pharmaceutical Lexicon, one of the standard reference texts for pharmacists of his day. Hahnemann practiced in an era of medicine characterized by treatments such as blood-letting, purging and leeches. Soon after he began his practice he became very discontented and disgusted with the medical practice of the day. He discovered homeopathy when he questioned the validity of a treatment in a medical text he was translating. Through experimentation, he found the law of similars. He then conducted a series of systematic experiments on healthy subjects—known as provings—where subjects were administered various substances, one at a time, noting their reactions in great detail. Later in clinical practice, Hahnneman confirmed that substances causing a certain set of symptoms in healthy subjects could heal sick individuals with similar symptoms.
What is the Law of Similars? The core principle in homeopathy is the Law of Similars—that like cures like. Basically, it states that a medicinal substance that can create a set of symptoms in a healthy individual can treat a sick individual who is manifesting similar symptoms. This law has been found in writings of Hippocrates as well as in ancient Indian and Chinese texts. While Hahnemann wasn’t the first to discover the law of similars, he was the first physician to conduct extensive systematic experiments that put this law into clinical practice.
Who uses homeopathy? Homeopathy is widely used throughout the world. It is integrated into the national health care systems of many countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Brazil and Mexico. Since the 1830s it has been the preferred medicine by members of Britain’s Royal Family and is common in Europe as a whole, with 25 to 50 percent of the population using homeopathic treatments. Almost all French pharmacies dispense homeopathic remedies. It is even covered by the national health insurances of several European countries. In the United States, more than 6 million Americans used homeopathy in 1999. Sources: Homeopathic Educational Services (Dana Ullman MPH) (http://www.homeopathic.com) National Center for CAM (NIH) - research report (modified October 2007) (http://nccam.nih.gov/health/homeopathy)
Is there any research to prove homeopathy is effective? Yes. There have been numerous studies that show that homeopathy is effective against various medical conditions including allergies, childhood diarrhea, influenza, post-operative ileus, rheumatic diseases, seasonal allergic rhinitis, upper respiratory infections and vertigo. In several such recent studies (listed below), all but one conclude that homeopathy has an effect greater than a placebo. Comprehensive meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials in homeopathy: Ø Linde et al. in Lancet in 1997 Are the clinical effects of homeopathy placebo effects? A meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials. Ø Kleijnen et al. in British Medical Journal in 1991. Clinical trials of homeopathy Ø Boissel et al. in 1996 Report to the European Commission in 1996. Critical literature review on the effectiveness of homeopathy: overview of data from homeopathic medicine trials. Ø Linde and Melchart 1998. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Randomized controlled trials of individualized homeopathy: a state-of- the art review. Cucherat et al. 2000 European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology Ø Cucherat et al. in 2000. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. Evidence of clinical efficacy of homeopathy: A meta-analysis of clinical trials. Ø Shang et al. in Lancet in 2005. Are the clinical effects of homeopathy placebo effects? Comparative study of placebo-controlled trials of homeopathy and allopathy In treating various epidemics—such as cholera, yellow fever, typhus fever and bacterial pneumonia in the 1840s and ‘50s—homeopathy was more effective than conventional, allopathic treatment, both in hospitals and at home. Studies that follow patients with different chronic conditions treated with homeopathy over a period of time show positive results. For example, clinical outcome surveys at Bristol Homeopathic Hospital and Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital show a 60 to 70 percent clinical improvement in various chronic diseases with a reduction in the need for conventional therapy. However, more research is still needed. Sources: British Homeopathic Association (http://www.trusthomeopathy.org) The Logic of Figures (1900) Edited by Thomas L. Bradford, MD (http://books.google.com/books?id=dhM4AAAAMAAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=Logic+of+Figures)
How are remedies prepared? Homeopathic remedies are prepared from natural substances, found in the animal, mineral and vegetable kingdom, that go through a process of serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking). Hahnneman discovered, through extensive experimentation, that the more a remedy is shaken and diluted, the more its curative power is increased while simultaneously decreasing toxicity. Are homeopathic remedies safe? Homeopathic medicines are safe with very rare side effects. They can be taken along with conventional medicine. Remedies are made according to strict guidelines found in an official manual, Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the US. Homeopathic medicines are regulated by the FDA. Where can I get homeopathic remedies? Many homeopathic remedies can be purchased over the counter at health food stores and grocery stores. Remedies can also be obtained through pharmacies such as Washington Homeopathic Products (www.homeopathyworks.com) and Hahnemann Laboratories (www.hahnemannlabs.com). What is a homeopathic session like? An initial homeopathic session generally lasts an hour and a half to two hours. During this time, Dr. Khaneja attempts to get a full picture of your child and his or her illness. First, she will take a normal medical history—much like a regular pediatric visit—paying attention to psychosocial and dietary influences on your child’s health. Then she will ask more detailed questions about who your child is as a person on all levels. These may include what kind of weather and environment they like best and when their energy level is highest and lowest. She will also ask questions about sleep patterns, digestion, appetite, stool patterns, personality traits, behaviors and moods as well as their anxieties and fears. Additionally, she will look into past and current stressors and traumatic events that may have an impact on your child’s current health. Based on the above history and a physical exam, Dr. Khaneja will then determine a plan of homeopathic treatment for your child.
For acute illnesses, such as ear infections, colds and flu, results should be seen within 24 to 48 hours, sometimes within the same day. The remedy is often given every few hours. Once a treatment shows effectiveness, no further follow up is needed. For chronic conditions, several follow-up appointments are usually necessary at monthly intervals. Homeopathy works with the body’s innate ability to heal. As everyone’s ability to heal is different, some people’s illnesses take more time than others’ to fully heal. However long a chronic condition takes to be alleviated, homeopathy gets to the root cause to eliminate disease—helping the body to heal from the inside out.
Why choose homeopathy?
What is mind-body medicine & how does it work? What medical conditions can it be used to treat? What therapies does Dr. Khaneja use in her practice? How are infants and children affected by stress? What is mind-body medicine & how does it work? Mind-body medicine focuses on the way the brain, mind, body and behavior interact. It also looks at the powerful ways that emotional, mental social, spiritual and behavioral factors affect health. Evidence demonstrates that stress may exacerbate or cause illness and that mind-body interventions can improve your health and overall sense of well being.
What medical conditions can it be used to treat? Mind-body medicine can be used to treat many illnesses and diseases. The mind affects everything in our life, so even diseases that cannot be cured can benefit from mind-body interventions as adjunctive therapies.
What therapies does Dr. Khaneja use in her practice? Dr. Khaneja works with children and adults to assist them in learning useful tools that can help them develop effective skills in managing stress. She works with methods such as imagery, guided meditation, affirmations and cultivating mindfulness and awareness. She is a trained hatha yoga teacher and also teaches individual and group yoga classes, with a special focus on relaxation training with breath awareness.
How are infants and children affected by stress? Children are affected by stress as well as adults. Even infants can sense ambient stress levels in their caretakers. Children gauge their environment by the responses of their caretakers. If a parent is not able to deal with stress in a skillful fashion, his or her stress level can adversely affect a child’s mood, behavior, play activity, sleep and appetite. Stress can also have an impact on children’s overall immunological functioning, making them more susceptible to illnesses such as colds, upper respiratory infections and ear infections. Children with chronic illnesses may have more exacerbations of their illness when they face increased environmental stress levels.
Dr. Seema Khaneja has been published in a variety of publications, including local magazines and academic journals. Links open as PDF documents. New Health Digest: - Integrative Pediatric Care: Practitioner/patient relationship – An explanation of pediatric integrative medicine and Dr. Khaneja’s practice. Published October 2005 - Seasonal Care for Children: Supporting health and strong immunity - tips for helping your children stay well during the cold and flu season, based on understandings from Ayurvedic medicine. Published November 2005 - What you can do for Holiday Stress - Dr. Khaneja’s son teaches her how to relax and let go of her stress. Published December 2005 - Awareness Parenting: Reducing childhood exposure to violence – Becoming aware of our emotional actions as parents and what our children are exposed to helps us understand why they react the way they do. Published January 2006
Zen Bow, a publication of the Rochester Zen Center - Growing in the Dharma with Children. Published Fall 2006
Annals of Behavioral Science and Medical Education - Development of an Elective in Integrative/Complimentary Medicine for Fourth-Year Medical Students and Pediatric Residents by Seema Khaneja and Olle Jane Sahler. Published Fall 2002
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Educational Needs Among Pediatricians Regarding Caring for Terminally Ill Children by Seema Khaneja and Barbara Milrod. Published September 1998
Press NY Metro Parents Magazine - For kids with asthma - two new, natural approaches, published December 21, 1999 – includes interview with Dr. Khaneja.
“Dr. Khaneja conducted a thorough investigation of our daughter’s behavior and personality – it was a very unique experience with a medical provider. As health care professionals ourselves, we have very high expectations for our children’s provider. Dr. Khaneja’s sensitive approach and the time she devotes are truly extraordinary. Her knowledge and experience instill the confidence that allows us to be parents, not providers, to our children. “Dr. Khaneja involves us in the process by constantly asking questions and allowing us to guide our daughters care. Dr. Khaneja is an excellent listener and she uses superb communication skills to practice collaborative care.” “Thank you so much for always going above and beyond the call of duty. You care greatly for your patients and it shows! During every visit over these last 17 months, you listened to every concern and took them all seriously. You put much through and love into our daughter’s care and we appreciate it so much. I thank God every day for blessing us with the most caring and talented pediatrician in Rochester. You treat the “whole child” and we could never hoped for more for our daughter.” “We searched for a doctor with homeopathic knowledge. The first medical law – do no harm. A homeopathic approach is just that. We found Dr. Khaneja to be very helpful. We love coming to her office, to see her smile and to hear her profound advice. We have not seen a more personal approach in any office. Dr. Khaneja would call us at home to ask how the was baby doing. We need more doctors like her.” “Thank you so much for ‘taking us on’ as your special project. The time and energy you spent has not gone by the wayside. I am grateful to have homeopathic remedies at my disposal for treating our son’s symptoms when necessary. Your kindness and support over the phone comforted me during a tough time. I believe in a holistic approach and so appreciated having your input for our problems. Reaching out to us meant so much and touched my heart. May your goodness come back to your tenfold.” “My husband and I wanted to express our gratitude to you for taking the time to answer all of our questions. It was truly a pleasure to find a doctor who is discerning, yet open. We look forward to the opportunity to work in partnership with you to maintain the health and well-being of our child. We will be in touch when the baby arrives!” “Dr. Khaneja is able to see a complete picture of health, rather than being limited to the allopathic aspect of treatment. She listens well. Our kids feel her warmth and comfort. She’s knowledgeable and able to provide a full scope of treatment options. We’ve already successfully recommended Dr. Khaneja to others!”“We have gained a trust for Dr. Khaneja and her expertise. My husband and I are very pleased with our choice. We feel lucky to have found a doctor who respects parents’ choices in caring for their child. “Dr. Khaneja listens and actively participates in conversations during our visits. Our appointments are relaxed and we do not feel rushed—they are comfortable and she encourages us and praises our work as parents. I leave feeling confident in the care of my baby.”
The information provided on this website is intended for educational and reference purposes only. It should not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific treatment plan, product or course of action. This web site does not provide specific medical advice. Please note that visiting this website alone does not establish a physician-patient relationship with Dr. Seema Khaneja. The web site does not replace medical consultations with qualified health or medical professionals for proper medical care or for diagnosis and/or treatment. All links to other web sites are provided as a courtesy and for informational purposes only. Integrative Pediatrics assumes no responsibility or liability for such other sites' content, accuracy, privacy policies or compliance with applicable laws. All information contained on this web site is presented as is, without any warranties of any kind, express or implied. We reserve the right to change these terms and conditions at any time, and you agree to abide by the most recent version of this agreement each time you view and use the web site. You are accordingly advised to consult this disclaimer each time you view and use the web site. Do not use the web site if you do not agree to all of these terms and conditions. |