Complementary Therapies

In addition to conventional medicine, there are also complementary and alternative therapies (CAM) that may help PN patients. Complementary therapies are used along with conventional medicine while alternative therapies are used in place of traditional medicine.

Many CAM therapies have not been evaluated in rigorous controlled clinical trials utilized in Western medicine. To address this, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, part of the National Institutes of Health, has developed an international presence in the field with a mission to explore and evaluate complementary and alternative therapies. They do have many research projects in the U.S.

No one treatment works for everyone, but some do find relief from CAM therapies. As with any medical treatments, there can be risks. And, while it is important to be aware of the risks, it is also encouraging to hear about the CAM therapies used by many PN sufferers.

Complementary and alternative therapies should not replace your conventional care. The best approach is to integrate these therapies with your current treatments.

List of Complementary & Alternative Therapies

The standard form of care in the U.S., often referred to as Western medicine, practitioners hold M.D. (medical doctor) or D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy) degrees. They work together with other licensed health professionals that provide the support services that are critical to patients. These professionals include registered nurses, anesthesiologists, physical and occupational therapists, and many others to provide the best possible care for patients. They determine diagnosis and treatment based on the medical knowledge and experience they have gained through conventional education or practice, using drugs, surgeries, or physical therapies.

While complementary and alternative forms of medicine are often thought of interchangeably, there are differences. Complementary therapies are used together with conventional medicine. This might include a regimen of vitamins, supplements, herbs, and ‘natural’ substances to be used in conjunction with other medications.

Alternative therapies, on the other hand, are used in place of conventional medicine. One example would be if you choose to do yoga instead of a physical therapy regimen. Both complementary and alternative therapies (CAM) are referred to as Eastern medicine as many of the therapies originated in China.

A total approach to health care, integrative medicine combines conventional and CAM therapies into a treatment plan where there is some high-quality evidence of safety and effectiveness.

The breakdown of CAM therapies

This category is the most popular form of CAM, used by more than 15% of the U.S. population. These include herbal medicines, vitamins, minerals, and products sold over the counter as dietary supplements. For a list of possible supplements click here.

Using mind and body practices that focus on the interactions among the brain, mind, body, and behavior, to affect physical functioning and promote health. Examples are: Meditation, yoga, acupuncture, deep breathing exercises, hypnotherapy, progressive relaxation, and tai chi.

These practices focus primarily of the structures and systems of the body, including bones and joints, soft tissue, and circulatory and lymphatic systems. Spinal manipulation and massage fall into this category.

Energy medicine is among the most controversial of the CAM therapies. These therapies involve the manipulation of various energy fields to affect health. The most common practices include those involving electromagnetic fields (magnet and light therapy).

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