Alternative medicine refers to a miscellaneous group of treatment approaches that are not generally recognized or accepted by conventional medicine. Many of these methods have been around for centuries. Recently, there has been an increased interest in many of these approaches. In fact, it has been estimated that as much as $27 billion is spent annually for alternative medicine treatments. Much of this interest is undoubtedly fueled by people who are dissatisfied with the limits of the modern medical establishment. It is understandable that interest in alternative medicine is particularly strong among those with chronic pain conditions.
Critics of alternative medicine usually point out that the techniques have not been subjected to the same degree of rigorous scientific testing and verification that is required of more conventional medical procedures. While this is certainly true, it should be kept in mind that orthodox "science-based" medicine has also utilized many approaches that have later proven to be worthless or even harmful to many patients.
It should also be noted that some
alternative therapies which were once considered “on the fringe of medicine” are
now commonly accepted, even by orthodox medical practitioners. In fact, many of the psychological
techniques described in this handbook were once considered alternative
medicine. Recently, some hospitals
and clinics have begun offering alternative medicine approaches such as
acupuncture.
Issues to consider before trying alternative medicine techniques
All of the alternative medicine techniques are associated with people who report significant benefit. However, just because someone else obtained pain relief with an alternative medicine approach does not mean that you will. Also, you should keep in mind that one component of treatment effectiveness in all forms of therapy is the placebo effect. The belief that a method will work can activate endorphins and bring pain relief.
Most important is the necessity of weighing potential benefits against the risks associated with a particular method. Although several of these techniques are essentially harmless, others including various forms of body manipulation and use of herbs can be dangerous for some people. Even acupuncture can be dangerous in the hands of an untrained person. At the very least, if you are considering any of these methods you should make sure that you receive it from a qualified practitioner.
Following is an alphabetical listing of just some of alternative medicine approaches which have been used for chronic pain. The list is drawn largely from Dr. Wells', Pain Relief Handbook (see list of recommended readings). I make no recommendations for any of them and urge you to consider the old Latin dictum, caveat emptor which means "let the buyer beware."
Aromatherapy – Use of concentrated and highly scented plant oils which can be massaged in the body or used with baths.
Auricular therapy – A form of acupuncture on the ear.
Ayurvedic medicine –Medical techniques developed and used in India. Includes use of various herbs and mineral supplements, massage and relaxation techniques.
Chiropractic – Body manipulation techniques originally developed by Daniel Palmer in 1895. Some pain conditions are thought to stem from problems of alignment in the spine.
Christian Science - This religious organization, founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the late 19th century, is based upon the belief that illness and health are ultimately spiritual in nature, and that healing comes about through spiritual means such as prayer and faith.
Color therapy – Methods for adjusting one’s aura by shining colored lights on the patient.
Copper therapy - Bracelets have been used for hundreds of years for arthritis & other joint pains.
Herbal medicine – Refers to an approach used throughout the world and for many centuries in China and India. In fact, herbal medicine is four times more commonly used throughout the world than conventional medicine. Herbs of course provided the original basis for many current medications including pain killers such aspirin and morphine.
Homeopathy - Philosophy of medicine developed in the early 19th century by a German physician. It is based on the concept that disease can be cured when a patient is treated with minute quantities of a substance that produces symptoms of the disease. Practitioners use a variety of plant and mineral substances.
Magnets – Use of magnets for health benefits is an old practice that has now become popular. The application of special magnets with the negative pole facing the pain area supposedly creates a magnetic field which penetrates into the target tissue and increases blood flow resulting in healing and pain relief.
Osteopathy - Based on a philosophy of medicine developed in the late 19th century. Usually involves physical manipulation of the affected part of the body.
Reflexology – Massage of zones on the feet that supposedly represent parts of the body.
Rolfing - Based on a theory called structural integration developed by American biochemist Ida Rolf in the early 1950s, this is a system of deep tissue massage that proponents believe releases tightened muscles, enabling the body to regain maximum functioning by realigning itself with the natural forces of gravity. It based on the principle that injury, disease, and emotional stress cause muscular tension. Muscles tighten and the surrounding tissue hardens, pulling the bones out of normal alignment. Rolfing softens the tissue, allowing the muscles to lengthen and the bones to return to their normal position.
Shiatsu – Specific form of massage practiced in Japan that is similar to acupressure. Shiatsu treats organic or physiological dysfunctions by applying finger or palm pressure to parts of the body remote from the affected part.
Tai Chi – A type of martial arts
consisting of series of a movements known as the
form. The form consists of a sequence of slow, carefully coordinated movements
that flow together into one continuous motion. The flowing movements, combined
with meditation techniques, was developed in China to promote health and
relaxation.
Yoga – Many forms of this ancient
healing & spiritual practice have been practiced in India and other parts of
the world. Hatha yoga utilizes
various body postures & breathing techniques to gain control over the
body. Raja yoga focuses on mind
control techniques.
For further information regarding alternative medicine and other self-help techniques, check the following web sites:
Alternative Health News Online - This is an excellent resource of information for those interested in diet and nutrition; mind-body control techniques; manual healing methods such as Chinese Qigong, Cranial Osteopathy, Massage Therapy, Reiki, and Therapeutic Touch; and alternative medical systems including Ayurvedic, Chinese, Holistic, Homeopathic, and Naturopathic systems.
Alternative Medicine - This site, originally developed by Burton Goldberg, publisher of Alternative Medicine magazine and several books, provides access to much information regarding alternative medicine approaches.
Prevention - Based on the popular magazine, Prevention, this site offers a blend of conventional and alternative medicine information and advice regarding health, nutrition, and physical fitness.
ThriveOnLine - This site provides a great deal of information regarding health and wellness covering the following major areas: medicine, fitness, weight, nutrition, sexuality, and serenity. Like Prevention, it offers a blend of conventional and alternative medicine approaches.