People today take a far more active role in the management of their health care than ever before. No longer satisfied with the limited options available through mainstream medicine, patients often seek alternative treatments to enhance their well-being or help them to manage their symptoms.

Complementary versus Alternative Medicine

When referring to medical issues, the terms “complementary” and “alternative” are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinct difference between the two. Alternative medicine encompasses out-of-the-mainstream therapies without utilizing conventional methods, while complementary medicine draws from both pools, offering patients maximum benefit. The past several decades have seen far greater acceptance of including alternative practices into wellness packages, even by those who were once wholly dedicated to conventional medicine. Many forward thinking doctors now work side-by-side with alternative care practitioners, referring patients for help with issues such as pain management and stress reduction.

Effective Complementary Treatments

Even the most mainstream of doctors are likely to appreciate the value of combining some alternative treatments with conventional medicine, if for no other reason than to empower their patients with control over their health care. Some commonly utilised therapies include: Massage: In addition to simply feeling fabulous, massage can improve circulation, reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and is thought to stimulate the lymphatic system, helping to rid the body of impurities.

Reflexology: The belief that all body systems benefit from applying pressure to specific areas of the soles of the feet is the root of reflexology. Clients often find sessions to be very relaxing and practitioners advise that clients drink plenty of water after a treatment to help the body eliminate stored toxins that are released during the procedure.

Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy is said to help relieve depression and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve respiration, aid digestion, and stimulate the immune system, helping patients to ward off and fight existing infections.

Hydrotherapy: In addition to alleviating the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and other conditions, hydrotherapy is thought to reduce stress, and may even provide cardiovascular benefits.

Acupuncture: Acupuncture is widely used in the treatment of anxiety, Crohn’s Disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), pain relief, urinary tract infections, can be helpful for those who suffer balance disorders, and is said to relieve the symptoms of end stage colorectal cancer.

Acupressure: The absence of needles can make acupressure especially attractive to the squeamish, offering relief from pain, reduction in the incidence of migraine headaches, help with stress management and may offer help with vertigo.

Hypnotherapy: Traditionally utilised to aid in the reduction of undesirable habits (smoking or overeating, for example), hypnotherapy may also be useful in alleviating pain and promoting relaxation, making it useful for those suffering from serious illness.

Reiki: Reiki practitioners hope to help return clients to wellness by channeling energies that encourage the physical body to regain balance with the mind and spirit. In addition to the relaxation benefits, Reiki treatments are said to reduce blood pressure, support healthy immune response, aid the body’s natural ability to heal, and reduce the side effects from chemotherapy and other drug treatments.<

Exercising Caution

While most practitioners have the best of intentions, there are of course, those who do not. Unlike conventional medicine, many types of alternative treatments are unregulated, leaving clients on their own in locating responsible practitioners who have received adequate training in their specialties. Hospice workers, GPs, oncologists, and others who work with terminally ill patients may be able to make recommendations, so potential clients should ask their caregivers for referrals. Asking about the possible benefits, risks, side effects, and costs involved with therapies can help patients to determine which treatments might be best for their circumstances, and patients are advised to inquire about clinical trials that may be available, offering a substantial savings on treatments.

NOTE: The information provided above is in no way intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Self-diagnosing and/or choosing to avoid medical care can result in serious health complications. Readers are advised to seek professional medical advice and/or care for all of their health concerns.