Alternative therapy is a method used for treating certain medical conditions differently from conventional medicines. There are many alternative therapies and some of which have worked better than others. Alternative therapies have been around in different cultures for centuries. Medical practitioners will often make a distinction between alternative therapies and conventional medicine. These therapies can complement modern medicine and technology. Many alternative therapies should not be used to replace these modern therapies, however.
Doctors often recommend combining traditional therapies with the alternative ones instead of using alternative therapies as a replacement for our modern treatment. Conventional medical procedures must have in-depth testing to ensure they work before they can be approved by governments. Alternative therapies don’t often go through the testing process, so they tend to lack the evidence to prove they work.
Here are some alternative therapies:
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is an alternative therapy that uses the natural scents of plant extracts. This practice is also known as essential oil therapy. The aim is to use the scent of the essential oils to improve the body’s health, spirit and mind. People believe that this type of practice can enhance emotional and physical health. Over the past few years, aromatherapy has become widely recognised in the medical field. There are over one hundred different types of essential oils on the market. When taking part in aromatherapy, individuals choose mostly popular oils. It is vital to get the oils from a reputable producer to ensure they pass through specific quality standards and deemed safe for use. Essential oils can be used in different ways from inhaling, rubbing them on the skin and putting them into the bath.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy works well to ease pains. It has been used most often for lower back pain and headaches. During this treatment, the therapist will use their touch and manipulate the muscles and soft tissues throughout the body. The area that gets massaged will depend on the client and their needs. Massage therapists work in different settings from fitness settings, hotels, doctor’s offices, spas and franchised clinics. Some massage therapists will travel and work after hours, even conducting house calls. Massage therapy may help with injury prevention by identifying areas of concern before muscle strains or pulls occur.
Before you start massage therapy, the therapist will want to discuss your symptoms, your medical history and the results that you want to achieve. The therapist may evaluate your body to locate the painful and tense areas. During the treatment, your soft tissues and muscles get manipulated to help relieve stress and tension. You will be given guidance regarding the different ways to improve your posture, stretching, relaxation and your overall strength.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture gets used in conjunction with other conventional treatments and healthcare equipment. Acupuncture aims to stimulate parts of the body to help treat certain medical conditions or to alleviate pain. The process is done by small needles penetrating the skin. This treatment has been used successfully in places like China and Japan for thousands of years. Research carried out in the US found that evidence shows acupuncture has moderate effectiveness when treating pain and nausea. Acupuncture can be a legitimate referral option for those symptoms associated with cancer treatment, depression and anxiety.
It would be best if you talked it over with your doctor about whether you should try alternative therapies. You shouldn’t stop treatment against the advice of your doctor. Your doctor might suggest having alternative therapy if your illness or concern is not life-threatening. This can help to assist in a better quality of life and overall wellbeing and happiness.
