If you’re looking to improve your health, you may be considering alternative health care. The benefits of using this approach are many, but there are some things you should know before you begin.
Alternative medicine involves a variety of treatment options that focus on the body and its ability to heal itself. You might be interested in therapies such as yoga, massage, acupuncture, and meditation. All of these treatments can be used to help with a variety of ailments. However, they do have side effects, and some have not been tested for safety. Before you start using any kind of alternative therapy, talk to your doctor and research it.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services estimates that 40 percent of Americans use some form of complementary medicine. Some of the most common options include dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and massage. These are not regulated by the FDA, so you should discuss them with your physician before you begin taking them.
It’s important to understand that these alternative methods are not meant for emergencies. You should always see a traditional healthcare provider if you’re experiencing any symptoms that may be life-threatening. You should also make sure that any alternative treatments are covered by your insurance plan.
When researching these treatments, you’ll want to be careful to choose a professional who has experience with the condition you’re suffering from. You’ll also want to check reviews to find a practitioner who’s credible. If you’re a healthy individual, you can safely participate in mind-body practices such as yoga or meditation with a trained practitioner. If you have a mental illness, you should discuss your condition with a physician before deciding to try an alternative treatment.
While some people are satisfied with the results of these alternatives, others find them to be harmful. The main downside of using these types of treatments is that you might not get the same high quality of care as you would from a conventional doctor. In addition, you’ll often have to pay out of pocket for them.
You’ll also have to decide whether or not you want to go with a mainstream doctor or a practitioner who specializes in alternative medicine. While some non-mainstream providers can make promising claims, it’s important to remember that most have not been fully tested for safety.
Choosing an alternative medicine practitioner is a great way to have more control over your treatment. In addition, you’ll have more choices and fewer side effects. You should also talk to your medical provider to make sure your treatment won’t interfere with the standard cancer treatment you’re already receiving.
Unlike traditional medicine, alternative therapies can be used alongside other forms of treatment. For example, if you’re dealing with chronic pain, you might want to consider a therapy like yoga. If you’re experiencing tension or stress, you can try massage.
As you’re researching alternative medicine, you might also be interested in trying a dietary supplement, such as glucosamine or St. John’s Wort. You should speak to your physician before you take any dietary supplements, though, as they can interact with prescription drugs.