An introduction to complementary health

Is it right for you?

The most commonly used complementary health therapies are acupuncture, osteopathy, chiropractic, homeopathy, aromatherapy and herbal medicine. However there are many other popular therapies such as naturopathy, nutritional medicine, massage and reflexology, whilst there are many more less known therapies include crystal healing, kinesiology, stone therapy and various kinds of energy medicine. Each if thesetherapies will be covered in detail on our site.

In what way does complementary health differ from conventional approaches?

The overwhelming principle of complementary health is to take a holistic view of the whole person and adopt a preventative approach to illness where possible. Rather than considering the physical symptoms an individual may be suffering in isolation an alternative health therapist will take factors such as lifestyle, diet, environment and mental, emotional and spiritual health into consideration when diagnosing an illness or problem. Their objective is to identify the root cause of the symptoms rather than just treat the symptoms themselves. Treatment is then designed to restore health and promote general wellbeing as well as to alleviate the symptoms being experienced.

What ailments can complementary health therapies be used for?

Complementary health therapies are successfully used by millions of people in the treatment and prevention of a wide range of illnesses and physical problems from general illnesses such as colds and headaches to chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and cystitis. They can also be used very successfully to address physical conditions such as back or joint pain or sports injuries.

There is constant new research being undertaken to try and address some of the controversy surrounding complementary health and ensure a better level of understanding for the general public and conventional medical practictioners alike. It is worth noting that some of the therapies used have been part of the medical approaches used by some ancient cultures for centuries and as such have stood the test of time; for example traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurverdic medicine from India. There is therefore substantial evidence available to support the positive effects that these therapies can bring.

Complementary therapies are being used alongside conventional medicine more and more with excellent results. For example some cancer patients now receive complementary therapies alongside their conventional treatments to enhance their quality of life and help reduce the side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. 

Research is constantly being made available that shows certain types of complementary treatments are particularly well suited to certain ailments. For example I have used homeopathy very successfully for my hay fever and this is well documented as a recommended approach. Asthma and eczema are also particularly responsive to complementary therapies such as acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Complementary therapies are also widely used to alleviate the symptoms of PMT and there are treatments which can sometimes be successfully used as an alternative to HRT for menopausal women.

The information given in this site is for information only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. You should always consult your medical practitioner if you are concerned in any way about your health.

© Montrose Edwards Ltd 2005/2006