Complementary and alternative treatments (CAM) are gaining attention lately. Reports suggest that 40% of Americans use some form of CAM therapy. But why are people moving from traditional to alternative treatments?
There are a number of reasons behind this shift. Patients have noticed that they spend more time waiting for their turn than actually spending time with the professional to discuss their health.
Another reason, probably the most crucial, is that people are dissatisfied with conventional medicine. They believe that conventional treatment won’t work for them.
No matter the reasons, CAM therapies are becoming popular and a common choice for many.
If you are intrigued about CAM treatments, this article will satisfy your curiosity and let you know about their different types.
What are complementary and alternative therapies?
Every treatment that is not a part of traditional therapies can be referred to as complementary and alternative treatment. We can also define them separately.
Complementary therapy is a treatment that a person uses alongside traditional treatments to enhance its effectiveness.
On the other hand, any therapy that a person uses in place of traditional treatment is an alternative therapy.
Before exploring the different types of complementary and alternative therapies, we want you to know that there is limited evidence supporting the use of CAM treatments.
If you plan to use them for yourself, it is best to consult an alternative medicine practitioner to understand their effectiveness.
Types of Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Some of the most common types of complementary and alternative therapies are:
- Acupuncture
One could never think of inserting needles into his body. However, the Chinese might not think the same way we do (well, in this case) and found out that inserting thin needles at specific points in the body can balance energy.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapy in which fine needles are inserted into some parts of the human body. It is believed that this method helps to stimulate nerves and improve overall body health.
This therapy is embraced worldwide and is more common among people dealing with anxiety, stress, and migraine.
- Medical Marijuana
For a long time, cannabis has been portrayed and seen as negative. However, lately, early research has shown that medical marijuana can help patients deal with various conditions, including pain, anxiety, and nausea.
Numerous states in America have understood the benefits of medical marijuana and have legalized it. As of the latest reports, around 52.5 million Americans are using medical marijuana to improve their quality of life.
Overdosing of cannabis products like Rick Simpson Oil can lead to numerous side effects. Therefore, it is best to consult an expert. You can consult medical marijuana doctors nearby to assess your symptoms, obtain a medical marijuana card, and know your dosage before cannabis consumption.
- Yoga
Yoga is one of the most popular CAM therapies that is practiced around the world. It is an old practice that includes posture work, focus, and deep breathing. It helps to reduce stress and promote calmness.
There are different types of yoga that you can practice. It has no side effects, and it is very rare to get any injury. However, it is necessary to perform yoga under the supervision of an expert.
- Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a therapy that people turn to because of the minimal side effects of it. Very few cases have been reported of the harmful effects of homeopathic medicines.
But what exactly is homeopathy? It is the use of very diluted natural substances to treat various conditions. You might be surprised to know that the core of this therapy is that the same substance causing symptoms can also help treat them.
It’s based on the principle that a substance that causes symptoms can also treat those symptoms.
Homeopathy once gained widespread attention, but today, it is more popular in developing countries than in developed ones.
- Chiropractic
If you are a Gen-Z, you might learn about chiropractic treatment via your TikTok. There, you can find hundreds of chiropractors making ASMR videos. But does this treatment really work?
Yes, it’s a popular manipulation therapy where an expert aligns your body. It is used to treat neck, lower back, and shoulder pain.
It is essential to highlight that it isn’t something you should do on your own or with the help of a friend; you must see a professional to avoid any complications.
Is alternative medicine the future of healthcare?
Some types of complementary and alternative therapies are more popular and widely adopted than others. However, saying that this can be the future of healthcare is too early. The reason is the limited evidence of the benefits of some of these treatments.
Many healthcare professionals recommend using these along with traditional treatments. We can say that it isn’t going to take the place of traditional treatment; however, some CAM therapies with proven benefits can be used alongside conventional treatments more often.
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