What Is Alternative Therapy?
Alternative therapy is a type of healing not typically provided by your doctor or other medical professional. It’s used by people who have been diagnosed with an illness or disease to alleviate their symptoms and enhance quality of life. The use of alternative therapies is growing globally.
Some of these treatments have been around for hundreds or even thousands of years, while others are relatively recent creations.
These include acupuncture, massage, meditation and chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation.
Many of these therapies have been scientifically proven to be successful in relieving conditions like pain and stress. They often form part of an integrated approach to healthcare that incorporates traditional medical care as part of its comprehensive treatment plan.
Some are also prescribed as stand-in therapies to combat side effects from conventional medicine such as nausea and vomiting.
For instance, acupuncture can reduce the discomfort that comes with chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Furthermore, it may lower the likelihood of developing infections.
Another popular alternative therapy is reiki, an ancient Japanese technique that utilizes energy to heal. The goal is to balance and clear the flow of “life force” energy throughout the body.
Reiki can be beneficial for individuals suffering from various conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, it may enhance your sense of well-being and enable you to sleep better at night.
Prior to beginning any alternative therapy, it’s essential that you consult your doctor first to make sure it won’t conflict with any of your current treatments.
Further study is necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of alternative therapies.
Some people mistakenly assume that alternative treatments are more successful than conventional ones, but this may not always be the case. For instance, some people who try acupuncture for back pain find it doesn’t provide long-lasting relief since it relies on the idea that emotions influence how one feels.
Other people who receive acupuncture treatment report feeling relaxed and less stressed out than before. Plus, they may discover it to be more cost-effective than traditional medical solutions.
According to the 2017 National Health Statistics Report, nearly 40% of adults in America have used alternative methods for healing.
This includes a diverse range of practices, from tai chi to yoga, acupuncture to massage.
According to a 2012 study, roughly one-third of American adults have used complementary health approaches in the past year. Tai chi and yoga remain among the most popular practices among this population.
These non-invasive, holistic approaches offer a more cost-effective alternative than traditional medical methods for treating various health issues. Since they don’t involve surgery, drugs or radiation, these approaches tend to be less invasive than their conventional counterparts.
Some of these treatments may provide relief from chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. Furthermore, they reduce pain and inflammation.