Complementary Medicine in the Modern Age

Students of the modern age aren't always necessarily "scholars;" in fact, students are both teachers and patients, alike, who are trying to find holistic and alternative means to traditional healthcare.  Complementary medicine is one of the largest growing facets in the modern world, and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has begun to take note of its evolutional affects on mainstream medicine.

The interesting aspect of complementary medicine is that it is an umbrella term for numerous marvels of modern medicine.  Some of the most innovative healing methods and even ancient healing arts from around the world have been integrated into complementary medicine.

Today, treatments with acupuncture, herbal medicine, chelation therapy, chiropractic, homeopathy, and massage therapy, among others, are just some of the diverse therapies available within the scope of complementary medicine.

A few years back, the safe and noninvasive treatment of acupuncture was researched [1] by the National Institutes for Health (NIH).  Their findings were promising.  Studies demonstrated that acupuncture is effective in pain relief for several health conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, stroke rehabilitation, and osteoarthritis, among other chronic pain conditions.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) currently has studies underway in homeopathy as well.  One of the topics of interest includes the treatment for physical, mental and emotional symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Additional healthcare studies, like massage for the treatment of cancer pain; and herbal medicine, more precisely, mistletoe extract - used in conjunction with chemotherapy as a treatment for solid cancer tumors are ongoing clinical trials.

Often times, CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) therapies like acupuncture, massage therapy and chiropractic are covered by health insurance; but it is always wise to check with your insurance provider prior to scheduling an appointment.

As more patients are seeking non-invasive and drug-free treatments for common health disorders and conditions, complementary medicine is one of modern society's greatest advancements to the healthcare industry.  As such, there has been an increase in growth in alternative and complementary medicine schools; including career-training and degree programs in acupuncture and Oriental medicine, massage, chiropractic medicine, and integrative medicine courses, among several others.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding complementary medicine or complementary schools, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.

References:

1.  National Institutes of Health

Complementary Medicine in the Modern Age

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