Defining Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine serves many purposes but surprisingly few people seem to have a grasp on how alternative medicine is defined. Even though many of the approaches are not recognized by conventional medicine, many people can benefit from augmenting their treatment plans with alternative interventions.

Consulting a physician about complementary approaches to healthcare is the ideal approach, and the process begins with research. Among the most important aspects is to understand the nature of alternative medicine without preconceived notions.

The medical community recognizes some alternative approaches to treating some conditions and it embraces many strategies for preventative medicine as well. The definition of alternative medicine has changed over the years, as more information about unconventional treatments has been unveiled. Some studies offer insight into how the approaches work.

Definitions

The National Library of Medicine used to define alternative medicine as unrelated to biomedical or scientific research. The approaches were classified as unorthodox systems of therapies that have no explanation. Alternative medicine was perceived as existing outside of the field of orthodox medicine.

The National Library of Medicine changed the definition of alternative medicine in 2002. The newer classification puts alternative medicines under complementary therapies, recognizing that the approaches may be suitable to augment traditional medical interventions.

• Not part of allopathic medical practice
• Do not have biomedical explanations

The definition makes a distinction between complementary therapies that are used in conjunction with traditional medicine and alternative treatments that take the place of medical interventions. Alternative medicine is classified under complementary approaches but it replaces other medical approaches, according to the definition.

Research

Alternative medicine is mysterious in nature but research continues to weed out approaches that seem to offer little benefits. Radium therapy is a prime example of an alternative medicine that does not surface. The medical community has adopted many approaches:

• Acupuncture
• Dietary interventions
• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic medicine

Some physicians recognize the benefits of hypnosis and other unconventional treatments for various conditions as well.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Grouping alternative medicine with complementary approaches gives the subject some recognition within the medical community. Some approaches have been adopted while others are still under investigation.

• Music therapy
• Homeopathy
• Massage
• Herbal supplements
• Naturopathy
• Folk medicine
• Faith healing
• New age healing

Many other alternative therapies exist, making the possibilities seemingly endless. Many studies on the use of alternative medicine are exploring the effectiveness of the treatments.

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is a research organization dedicated to alternative treatments and augmentative approaches. This leading agency of the Federal Government explores approaches, treatments, therapies, and health care systems not included in traditional medicine.

Some people may be interested in participating in NCCAM’s current research programs. The organization offers ways that the public can become involved with their efforts.

• Attending lectures, conferences and committee meetings
• Small business research grants
• Participating in clinical trials

Organizations like NCCAM help promote greater understanding of alternative medicine, giving many of the approaches validity.