There are many types of alternative therapies available that support natural self-healing and encourage sense of overall well-being. Alternative therapies can reduce stress, pain and fatigue. Where does one begin? Do your research and decide what is important to you when considering CAM.
The National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is a great starting point to gather basic, reliable information. The following fact sheets were particularly helpful:
What is Complementary or Alternative Medicine (CAM)?
CAM is defined as a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine or standard care. Standard care is what medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy and allied health professionals, such as registered nurses and physical therapists, practice. Examples of CAM therapies include acupuncture, chiropractic, meditation and yoga.
Alternative medicine means treatments that you use in place of standard ones.
Complementary medicine includes nonstandard treatments that you use together with standard ones.
Are You Considering Using CAM?
Tell Your Health Care Provider About Your Use of Complementary Health Practices
Selecting A CAM Practitioner
For Additional Information:
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine Acupuncture Unit
Massachusetts Board of Registrations of Chiropractors
American Message Therapy Association
American Music Therapy Association, Inc
Check out our website at Disabilityinfo.org, to search for various alternative therapies.
Alternative Medicine, Acupuncture, Holistic Health, Music therapy, and Art therapy.