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Complementary Health Care
When it comes to health care, you have many choices. There is standard Western medical care or other, sometimes less conventional methods (called complementary health care). An approach known as integrated therapy combines the best of both health care worlds, enhancing your overall health and well-being.
Common Complementary Health Care Methods
Acupuncture: Thin needles are used to improve energy flow throughout the body.
Chiropractic: Spinal adjustments are made to improve health and flexibility, enhance movement, and reduce pain.
Herbal therapy: Plant-based remedies are used to treat a range of health problems.
Homeopathy: Highly diluted remedies are used to boost the body’s healing power.
Massage therapy: Touch is used to improve blood flow, relax muscles, relieve tension, and reduce aches and pains.
Mind-body therapy: The connection between state of mind and physical health is used to enhance well-being.
Naturopathy: Nature-based treatments are used to improve health.
Treat the Person, Not Just the Illness
Complementary care focuses on the whole person, not just on illness or symptoms. Caregivers may ask you questions about your overall life and health. For instance, they may ask about your personal relationships, your work life, or your beliefs and attitudes.
The goal is to reveal underlying factors that may be affecting your health today. Looking beyond simply the health problem, complementary care often focuses on treating both the person and the root causes behind his or her illness.
Complementary care methods often stem from the belief that you can improve health from within. The caregiver’s job, in part, is to provide the tools that help bring about healing. This, in turn, may help prevent future problems.
The Healing Power of Participation
Complementary care works best when all who are involved in care play an active role. But don't forget that you—not your doctor or other caregiver—are in charge of your health. You know yourself best. And with the help of a medical doctor and a complementary care provider, you can decide on the best ways for you to get and stay well.
The Healing Power of the Body
Complementary care providers are trained in giving treatments that can help release your body's healing force. This force can bring homeostasis (balance and stability) to your health. The treatments used often come from nature. They may be "plant- or mineral-based," or may involve a hands-on approach with touch or body adjustments.
