By Sue Danielson, health services
Once considered fringe, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments are gaining acceptance in Western medicine. Health care providers now are better able to understand the role these therapies play in helping to treat and prevent illness. As a result, doctors are starting to combine these techniques with conventional treatments.
When considering any treatment, take the time to learn about the risks and benefits. Gather information from a variety of sources and check credentials. Talk with your doctor before trying any new treatment, especially if you take medications, have chronic health problems, or you are pregnant or nursing. Here are just a few areas of complementary medicine:
- acupuncture
- chiropractic
- herbal medicine
- CBD
- crystals
- music therapy, animal therapy
- nutrition
- essential oils
- yoga and exercise
- energy therapies
Scammers have perfected ways to convince people that their products are the best. Be alert for theses red flags:
- big promises such as calling a product a “miracle cure” or “scientific breakthrough”
- cure-alls in which the product claims to treat a wide range of symptoms or cure or prevent a number of diseases.
- Testimonials from people who have used the product are not the same as scientific proof.
- If you are looking at herbal remedies, vitamins and minerals, and dietary supplements, don’t assume that natural means safe.
Sometimes it might feel as though your doctor is making many of the decisions about your treatment and you feel left out. Many people feel that CAM therapies allow them take a more active role in their treatment and recovery. CAM therapies may enhance your health and quality of life, but don’t make changes without first talking with your health care provider. Just remember that these are meant to assist, not replace, conventional medicine.
Viterbo health services and recreation and leadership will host an Alternative Care Fair Thursday, Oct. 24, from 2–5 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center FSPA Lobby. Stop by and educate yourself on CAM options. Vendors will be there to answer your questions. Contact Sue Danielson, health services, at scdanielson@viterbo.edu or 796-3806 with any questions.