While the benefits of alternative medicine are questioned by many, an increasing number of conventional Western doctors are suggesting complementary alternative medicine treatments to their patients. This is because many Western doctors are opening up to the idea of conventional and alternative medicine working together. Many alternative medicine options involve using natural substances, changes in diet, manipulation of the muscles or body or holistic approaches to health; many Western doctors find these options widen their horizons as they prescribe treatment to patients. The following alternative medicine treatments are commonly considered beneficial by Western doctors:
Acupuncture for Pain Management
While acupuncture relies on the Asian philosophy that energy flow in the body must be promoted through stimulation of points along the energy channels of the body - definitely not a Western medical philosophy - Western doctors still commonly refer patients to acupuncturists for help with pain and nausea. Acupuncture has made its way into the mainstream market such that doctors often refer cancer patients to acupuncturists for supplemental medical care, especially for managing pain.
Acupuncture as Support for Overcoming Addictions
Western mental health doctors also turn to complementary alternative medicine. They often recommend patients seek help with overcoming cravings and dependencies through acupuncture. Even though the placement of fine needles in specific places on the skin doesn't sound like it would erase cravings, many patients report that it does indeed reduce cravings and support recovering addicts.
Massage Therapy for Speedy Healing and Mental Health
Western doctors acknowledge the benefits of alternative medicine practices such as massage therapy and therapeutic touch to speed healing and to support emotional and mental health. Massage is known to increase circulation, bringing blood to the injured muscles and relieving tension so the injured parts of your body can heal faster. Many doctors are also recognizing the benefits of therapeutic touch for those who suffer from stress, emotional distress and depression.
Chiropractic Medicine for Back Pain
While many doctors still prescribe surgical procedures and trips to the physical therapist for back pain, many will send you to a chiropractor before recommending invasive procedures or prescription drugs.
Yoga and Meditation for Stress
While anti-depressants, sleep aids and anti-anxiety drugs are still popular prescriptions, many doctors are encouraging patients to try yoga and meditation before taking a pill. The benefits of yoga and meditation are being proven out in scientific study after scientific study; yoga and meditation can lower your blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol levels.
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 | The history of alternative medicine, in some cases, reaches back thousands of years. |
Western vs alternative medicine comparison yields very different philosophies to medicine. |
Some types of complementary medicine have proven so effective that even Western doctors are beginning to recommend their use in combination with traditional medical care. |
