omplementary and Alternative Medicine, otherwise known as CAM, offers treatments and practices that integrate the combined healing powers of the body, mind, and spirit into Western medical practices. As its practices are assessed and the results are monitored and measured, CAM is evolving like any other medical field.
The mainstream of complementary and alternative medicine is defined by several broad categories of CAM healing systems:
- Homeopathy
- Naturopathy
- Traditional
- Mind-Body
- Herbs and Supplements
- Manipulation and Touch Therapy
- Energy Work
CAM Healing Systems
Homeopathy and Naturopathy
Homeopathy and Naturopathy are the most common “alternative” medical approaches used in CAM. Homeopathic refers to miniscule doses of a substance that stimulates the body’s self-healing responses. Naturopathic refers to non-invasive practices such as herbal medicine, exercise/lifestyle counseling, and massage.
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Today’s health-smart consumers are driving the growing options for integrative wellness. |  |
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CAM incorporates Traditional Eastern medicine (Chinese, Asian, Native American, and Tibetan) along with other ancient medicines, as well as Ayurveda (Indian practices such as Yoga and meditation), that have developed in other cultures. The distinctions aren’t always clear in CAM and practices may overlap.
Mind-Body Medicine
Mind-body medicine is quickly becoming an accepted therapeutic approach as we learn more about the ability of the mind to control, enhance, alter, and improve health and wellbeing. CAM practitioners have long understood the importance of mind-body harmony for health. The use of patient support groups and cognitive-behavioral therapy are now therapeutic staples that originated as part of CAM practices. Hypnosis, meditation, Yoga, and even biofeedback are all familiar and effective methods for maintaining the balance of mind and body. The power of prayer in healing and wellness has also been documented, and relaxation therapies including art, music, dance, and other creative forms continue to build a body of positive results.
Herbs and Supplements
Biologically based dietary supplements and herbal practices use ingredients found in nature for healing. Dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and aromatherapies that have existed for thousands of years are the basis of this medical approach. Today, many pharmaceutical companies are developing protocols for exploring and isolating the benefits of medicinal herbs and plants. In fact, about 25 percent of today’s drugs are plant-based.
Manipulation and Touch Therapy
Manipulation and Touch therapies continue to develop and offer effective techniques for relief of stress, pain, and chronic discomfort. Chiropractic and osteopathic massage may be the best known. Craniosacral therapy (a form of spinal massage) and acupressure techniques can also be effective.
Energy Work
Energy therapies are perhaps some of the least understood CAM practices. The basis of energy work is in the energy fields that surround and exist within the body. Traditional Chinese medicine has long recognized the existence of these life forces (Qi) and the importance of keeping them in balance. The existence of these fields is not yet supported by the weight of scientific evidence. Still, thousands of years of practice suggest the potential value of exploring these methods further.
Biofield and bioelectromagnetic therapies are the most often used techniques. Biofield therapies such as Qi Gong, Reiki, and Therapeutic Touch manipulate the energy fields using the hands. Bioelectromagnetic therapies use mechanically produced electromagnetic fields such as pulsed, magnetic, and AC or DC in an effort to adjust the fields within the body.
Finding a CAM Practitioner
CAM is an approach you may want to explore as part of your routine healthcare program. Many traditionally trained practitioners are not aware of the options that CAM offers, so don’t be afraid to ask for a referral, or refer yourself, to a CAM practitioner.
The NCCAM Clearinghouse, part of the NIH, is a great place to start. While they don’t offer practitioner referrals, the clearinghouse is an indispensable resource for publications, databases, and literature. Two incredibly useful publications for those new to CAM are "Selecting a CAM Practitioner" and "Are You Considering Using CAM?" Visit www.nccam.nih.gov for more information.
If you’re looking for a Western medical practitioner who also practices CAM, again, start with your primary physician. Call university medical schools or hospitals for lists of CAM practitioners, or ask if they have any on staff. The Directory of Information Resources Online (DIRLINE), compiled by the National Library of Medicine, contains information about and the locations of a variety of health organizations, including CAM associations and organizations.
When you develop a short list of CAM practitioners, interview them using the NCCAM Clearinghouse guidelines for selecting a practitioner. Today’s health-smart consumers are driving the growing options for integrative wellness programs and practices. Be on the leading edge and be proactive in managing your health and wellness.
By Amy L, May 28, 2009
I will see if there are any CAM practictioners within our Blue Cross Blue shield network. Since our insurance moved over I have to find a new doctor anyway. I wonder if there will be any such practictioners covered by our insurance. I really wish it was so much more mainstream so that it wouldn't be so expensive as to be out of reach for many of us.