What Is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?
by Joyce Dillon
Complementary and Alternative medicine, as defined by NCCAM (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine), the federal government's lead agency for scientific research, is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine.
Complementary medicine is often used together with conventional medicine. An example of a complementary therapy used in conjunction with surgery would be massage or therapeutic touch.
Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example would be the use of alternative therapy such as a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor.
According to Normal Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., alternative medicine is something of a misnomer because people have been relying on acupuncture, Chinese medicine, herbal medicine and massage for centuries while so-called conventional or Western medicine has only been in existence for a relatively short period of time.
Conventional medicine has always tended to isolate a problem and treat it, often without reference to the root cause. Alternative medicine treats nothing in isolation, stressing instead the importance of the holistic approach; seeing the mind and body as inseparable and capable of self-repair if the individual is ready to take an active part in his or her own healing and general welfare.
In the last few years complementary and alternative medicine has become increasingly popular as more people decide to take control of their own health.
To summarize, the best healing approach is one which avoids dangerous and traumatic procedures; which softly and gently encourages the body's natural healing processes, and which treats the client as a “whole” individual and invites the client to take a positive and active part in his or her own recovery and health maintenance.
Some of the most popular alternative and complementary therapies are:
Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils from flowers, herbs, and trees to promote health and well-being.
Chiropractic: Focuses on the relationship between bodily structure (primarily that of the spine) and function, and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health.
Homeopathic Medicine: In homeopathic medicine, there is a belief that “like cures like” meaning that small, highly diluted qualities of medicinal substances are given to cure symptoms; when the same substance is given at higher or more concentrated doses, it would actually cause those symptoms.
Massage: Manipulates muscle and connective tissue to enhance function of those tissues and promote relaxation and well-being.
Naturopathic: Practitioners work with natural healing forces within the body, with a goal of helping the body heal from disease and attain better health. Practices may include dietary modifications, massage, exercise, and acupuncture.
Therapeutic Touch: Derived from an ancient technique called “laying-on-of-hands”, therapeutic touch is based on the premise that the healing force of the therapist affects the patient's recovery; healing is promoted when the body's energies are in balance; and by passing their hands over the client, healers can identify energy imbalances.
Qi Gong: A component of traditional Chinese medicine that combines movement, meditation, and regulation of breathing to enhance the flow of Qi (an ancient term given to what is believed to be vital energy) in the body, improve blood circulation, and enhance immune function.
A good resource book is The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine, An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Natural Healing, by C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D.
How Do You Select A Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practitioner?
Key Points:
- If you are seeking a practitioner, speak with your primary health care provider(s) or someone you believe to be knowledgeable about CAMregarding the therapy in which you are interested. Ask for a recommendation for the type of CAMpractitioner you are seeking.
- Make a list of CAMpractitioners and gather information about each before making your first visit. Ask basic questions about credentials and type of practice. Where did the practitioner receive training? What licenses or certifications does the practitioner hold? How much will the treatment cost? How many visits are needed?
- Check out your insurer to see if the cost of therapy will be covered by your plan, or if the insurer lists practitioners who offer discounts.
- Come to the first visit prepared to answer questions about your health history, including injuries, surgery, and major illnesses, as well as medications, vitamins and other supplements you may take.
- Assess your first visit and decide if the practitioner is right for you. Did you feel comfortable with the practitioner? Could the practitioner answer your questions? Does the treatment plan seem reasonable? Will you learn self-care techniques you can practice at home?
Where to Find a Practitioner:
- Referral from physician
- Referral from a friend/or family member who has worked with the practitioner
- Alternative Magazine http://www.alternativemedicine.com/
- American Whole Health-AARP Alternative Health and Wellness Network
- Web search for alternative/natural healing practitioners
- Alternative and Complementary Medical Association
© 2006 Joyce Dillon, R.N., M.N. health coach and wellness practitioner works with individuals and groups who want to dramatically improve their health, reduce stress and live a more balanced lifestyle. Learn more at www.healthylivingandbalance.com or contact Joyce directly at 404-881-1322 or jjdillon@mindspring.com
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