Complimentary Alternative Medicine Combined With Traditional Medicine

For years, modern medicine was the only choice available for patients, as alternative treatments were not accepted or offered as a viable form of medical treatment. Modern medicine has now become more open minded and accepting of the use of alternative medicine treatments. Now, alternative medicine doctors and western medical doctors work together to assist their patients. This practice is called complimentary alternative medicine, and it is becoming more and more popular.

Complimentary Alternative Medicine:  Working in a Traditional Medicine Setting

You may have used some complimentary alternative medicine treatments without even knowing it. Aromatherapy is an alternative treatment that relies on the sense of smell to trigger a healing response within the body. Aromatherapy is used in many physician's offices and also in recovery rooms. Different scents will trigger different responses. For example, vanilla is often used for it's relaxing effects. This is a non-intrusive type of alternative treatment that is easy to do, even at home.

Many patients are surprised to learn that Chiropractic medicine is actually a form of complementary alternative medicine. Chiropractors can be found anywhere and will work with traditional doctors to help ensure a total body approach to healing. Osteopathic medicine is another form of complimentary alternative treatment that uses a whole body approach by focusing on the importance of one body functions affect on other functions. Both of these practices are known to be reputable and safe.

Massage may be the most common form of complimentary alternative treatment, as patients with muscle problems are commonly referred to a massage therapist. Massage works well when combined with traditional medical practices. During massage a patient's entire well-being is emphasized and kept in focus.

Some patients use homeopathic treatments along with traditional medicine interventions. The primary care physician should always be told of any complementary alternative treatment you are receiving. Homeopathy involves treating the underlying cause of an ailment, and not just the symptoms. For allergies, a patient may be given small doses of the allergen so that their body can build up a tolerance. This is continued until there is no more negative reaction to the allergen. This is a popular treatment choice, as many people have found success from using it.

Complimentary alternative medicine is believed to work well with more modern medical practices. For many doctors, using alternative treatments is a way to supplement their own treatments in order to assist a person in achieving total mind and body wellness.

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