Is There an Alternative To Western Medicine?

By Yusuf Khan, MD

ACT Fast Medical Care

More Family/Primary Care Articles

Is There an Alternative To Western Medicine?

The answer is yes. “Alternative therapy” represents those health remedies that are not considered standard practice in Western medicine. They are used in the place of traditional medicine. “Complementary” medicine refers to the use of alternative therapies in conjunction with standard conventional medicine. Although alternative medical treatments have been viewed with some skepticism in the past, they are rapidly gaining traction in the US.
Both alternative and complimentary medicine consist of a vast array of therapies. These treatments may include changes in diet and exercise, light therapy, hypnosis, and acupuncture. The benefits of these alternative therapies have been passionately argued, however additional research is still needed to determine their true effectiveness.
Here are just some of the more commonly used treatments
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, except without needles. Pressure is applied along the body's various meridians. The theory is that these meridians are channels that carry life energy or ch'i (qi). The rationale is that when these channels are impeded that illness may occur. Studies have shown that acupressure may decrease nausea in some patients.
Acupuncture often conjures up images of needles, however, it refers to multiple modalities that stimulate various points on the body. Studies have shown it to help reduce chronic pain.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils form the seeds, leaves, roots, or blossoms of plants. These oils are often inhaled or massaged into the skin. Aromatherapy has been shown to reduce pain and promote relaxation.
Ayurvedic medicine has been present for thousands of years with its origins in India and uses several techniques, including herbs, massage, and specific diets. The aim is to balance the mind, body, and spirit in order to achieve overall wellness.
Balneotherapy or hydrotherapy, is the use of water for specific therapeutic intentions, and dates as far back as 1700 B.C. It is based on the concept that water benefits the skin, and proponents believe that water might even boost people's immune systems.
Biofeedback techniques allow people to control involuntary processes, such as blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and even skin temperature in an attempt to improve conditions, such as high blood pressure, headaches, and chronic pain.
Naturopathic medicine is based on the healing power of nature. Naturopathic doctors are trained in both conventional and alternative medicines. They often pursue the cause of a medical condition by investigating the physical, mental, and spiritual indicators.
Although more research is needed to determine their true potential and efficacy, there is little doubt in the growing popularity and acceptance of these therapies.