Complementary and alternative medicine has helped countless people find ways to deal with ailments, aches and pains for centuries. Today, many people are attracted by a more natural, holistic or spiritual approach to healing and healthcare. Many have also lost some faith in the medical establishment.

However, some practices considered to be alterative therapies have been accepted by the medical mainstream and are even offered on the NHS. Alternative medicine now covers such a wide range of practices that there is no such thing as a standard “alternative therapy”.

We can consult and advise on all aspects of alternative medicine and complementary health options. We can even help you locate a recommended chiropractor, acupuncturist, homoeopathist or faith healer in your area.

What is alternative medicine?

Alternative medicine covers a variety of treatments that you won’t find in the traditional health services (although some are available through the NHS). This can include homeopathy, chiropractics and faith healing. Some even suggest that diets such as the Atkins and activities such as prayer should be included as forms of alternative medicine.

Complementary medicine usually refers to practices which are undertaken alongside more traditional methods – such as acupuncture or aromatherapy. There are dozens of alternative medicine practices, but here are some of the most common:

• Acupuncture – an alternative medicine practice originating in ancient China. Needles are inserted into particular points on the body to relieve pain and promote good health.
• Yoga – great for posture, healthy joints, core strength, circulation and relaxation.
• Meditation(including transcendental meditation) – this complementary or alternative medicine is believed to offer all kinds of benefits, from relaxation to targeting disease.
• Traditional Chinese and Japanese therapies – these alternative medicines cover a whole range of treatments and practices, many of which offer proven health benefits.
• Touch therapy – touching and manipulating a patient’s energy field to help promote healing.
• Reiki – this alternative medicine practice originates in Japan and focuses on the body’s ability to heal itself.
• Reflexology – an alternative medicine practice that targets pressure points in the feet to heal other parts of the body.
• Pilates – an increasingly popular form of exercise that strengthens the back, improves the posture and helps you control mind, body and breathing.
• Osteopathy – an alternative medicine practice that emphasises the musculoskeletal system.
• NLP - Neuro-linguistic programming – an alternative therapy and practice that looks at language, communication and interaction.
• Natural therapies – numerous forms of alternative medicine that use natural treatments and products.
• Music therapy – using the healing effects of music to help promote health and wellbeing.
• Alexander Technique – a practice that focuses on movement, posture, breathing and self-observation to promote healthy living and an efficient body.
• Massage therapy – numerous alternative medicine therapies and treatments that use massage and touch to heal and promote overall health.
• Magnetic healing – an alternative practice that uses magnetic power to target conditions in the body.
• Hypnotherapy – a complementary treatment that uses hypnosis to treat psychological conditions and issues including depression and trauma.
• Homeopathy – a very popular alternative medicine technique that uses a tiny (or non-existent) amount of a pathogen or agent that causes the patient’s symptoms to treat an illness or disease.
• Faith Healing – an alternative medicine practice that uses spiritual methods to treat a range of diseases and conditions.
• Feng shui – positioning objects and furniture around your house to maximise the positive energy and create the optimum environments.
• Qigong – an alternative medicine practice originating in ancient China that coordinates breathing exercises with different postures to promote healthy living.
• Crystal healing – using crystals to affect a body’s energy system and aura in the aim of relaxing and recharging the body
• Chiropractic medicine – this alternative medicine practice focuses on the alignment and care of the spine to help treat a number of conditions.
• Aromatherapy – an alternative medicine therapy that uses the healing power of aromas from essential oils and plant materials.
• EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) or tapping – is a proven technique to free yourself from unwanted emotions, memories and experiences and getting back in control of your emotions and your life.

Is alternative medicine right for you?

An increasingly diverse range of people has turned to alternative medicine in recent years. Some have looked to find treatment options after traditional medicine has failed them. Some enjoy a holistic, more natural approach to healthcare. Others simply prefer to try different therapies and enjoy the sensations that certain complementary medicines offer. Alternative medicine is now much more accepted than ever before. Contact us to find out more about how alternative medicine can improve your overall health and lifestyle.