What are complementary and alternative medicines?

Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) consist of diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices and products not generally considered part of conventional medicine. Complementary therapy is used together with conventional medicine, while alternative therapies replace conventional medicine.

Complementary and alternative therapies have been used to prevent and treat illnesses for hundreds of years dating back centuries. These can include chiropractic care, acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, music therapy, to name only a few of the healing restorative practices. Though several different methods exist, they all use the body’s natural healing system for recovery and prevention. Many people turn to these methods to avoid the dangerous side effects that can result from conventional medicine.

Ongoing research is providing more and more evidence of the healing effects of these methods. Some doctors have recognized the benefits of complementary medicine and may now recommend alternative therapy such as acupuncture, massage therapy or chiropractic techniques to be used along with conventional medicine. Natural doctors are assimilating into the healthcare field giving people more health care options with excellent results. A growing number of insurance companies are also beginning to cover some of these methods. Medical doctors and natural doctors should work together in the treatment planning of patients so that both are aware of the complete therapy management program a patient is undergoing for maximum results and eliminating potential risks.

Pain.com provides this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions regarding treatment and care with your healthcare provider. Pain.com does not endorse any product, service or therapy.