The past 30 years have seen a rise in popularity of unconventional health care; the array of alternatives is bewildering.
These practices are based on beliefs about biology that differ from the doctrines of conventional science. The beliefs are held in addition to or instead of the orthodox.
There is less official and professional control over alternative health care than over the orthodox. Though most practitioners have been thoroughly trained in reputable schools established by their professions, there is nothing to stop anyone from claiming expertise and offering therapy (as long as they don’t perform surgery, attempt to treat cancer and certain infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and syphilis, or prescribe or dispense prescription-only drugs – these treatments are restricted by law to registered medical and dental practitioners). There are instances, fortunately uncommon, of people setting up shop with no training, or claiming professional qualifications after attending a weekend course.
Some orthodox practitioners scorn alternative therapies, but most of us realize that our sciences don’t explain all the mysteries of the human body and mind, and believe that alternative points of view should be given fair consideration.
Some alternative therapies (such as acupuncture, herbalism, homeopathy, naturopathy, chiropractic and osteopathy) offer diagnosis of symptoms and treatment of illness. Others offer training in self-help measures and ways of life intended to promote healing and health. These are often called complementary therapies, and may be recommended to improve the patient’s general health by both alternative and orthodox practitioners. Complementary therapies include many that promote or restore harmony of mind and body, such as yoga, T’ai chi, Alexander and Feldenkreis methods, massage, relaxation training, meditation, and spiritual healing.
Most alternative therapies have been used for centuries, which to me seems testimony to their value. Some that seem new, such as aromatherapy and music and colour therapies, just have new names. People have always known that smells, colours and sounds can influence our behaviour and how we feel about ourselves.
I believe that most alternative therapies provide a good complement to conventional health care, and this seems to be how most people use them. However, there may be times when you want to decide between the two. Should you try a herbal or homeopathic remedy, or go for a pharmaceutical product? When is it wise to accept surgery instead of trying acupuncture? When should you see an osteopath as well as a rheumatologist and physiotherapist? Of course there’s no easy answer: it depends on the circumstances in each case. If you can’t decide, seek advice from a variety of sources and if still in doubt, you may prefer to try all options.
If you think you could be helped b alternative health care, find out all you can about the therapy and practitioner that you choose. If in doubt about a therapist’s training, contact the Natural Therapies Registration Board or the professions association of the therapy offered.
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