Abstract The paper explains that complementary and alternativemedicine (CAM) describes an array of healing modalities whose time for serious consideration and integration into the present healthcare system may have arrived. The paper states that homeopathy is the most controversial form of CAM and discusses the biases claiming that homeopathy treatment is an an implausible treatment, but affirms that homeopathy is an important topic for public health. This is due to the affordability, accessibility and efficacy of homeopathic remedies.
Outline:
The Perception of Complementary and AlternativeMedicine in Conventional Medicine Homeopathy: Medicine of the past and the future
Implications for CAM in Public Health
From the Paper "It is possible that unfounded accusations of quackery and the like are but a smokescreen that has been thrown up to blur certain facts about CAM's increased appeal. It is also possible that conventional health practitioners and the pharmaceutical industry are striving to monopolize treatment in the US. It is more likely however, that evidence-based research, which has become the pinnacle of standards for excellence in testing the efficacy and safety of treatment with drugs, is an improper testing method for CAM (Novella et al., 2007). CAM uses few, if any pharmaceutical treatments, and should be held to appropriate contextual standards for what CAM in general, and each therapy in particular, claims. Homeopathy, for example, displays effects that are vastly different than the action of drugs, and requires fundamentally different protocols from which to study and gather evidence."
Abstract Complementary and alternativemedicine (CAM) therapies including traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy and naturopathy have gained considerable popularity in recent years. This essay examines why many patients have chosen CAM therapies in preference to western medicine. The writer first defines CAM and then analyzes some of the reasons why CAM is preferred to modern medicine. This is then followed by a discussion of the risks and benefits of CAM and the need for regulation of complementary and alternativemedicine.
From the Paper "Although CAM has benefits, there is not much research on their safety and efficacy or the existing research is of poor quality. CAM has numerous direct and indirect risks. CAM also is poorly regulated and many CAM practioners are not adequately trained. Although modern medicine is not exact and has its pitfalls, the fact remains that it is well researched and based on extensive and good quality clinical trials. The exact properties, benefits, and side effects of allopathic medicine are well-documented. Therefore, although some patients may choose CAM over modern medicine, CAM should be used only as an adjunct or when all other modalities of treatment have failed."
Tags:medicine treatment chinese, health care, herbal medicine, psychological homeopathy
Abstract This paper looks at how some of the techniques and therapies used in alternativemedicine are being integrated into the practice of conventional medicine. The paper explains that the combined use of alternativemedicine with conventional medicine is known as Integrative Medicine.
From the Paper "Today people are often questioning the methods of traditional medicine but are not quite ready to abandon them in favor of alternative or complementary treatments. Some doctors and hospitals are delving into the benefits of alternative and complementary medicine, combining some of the techniques used with traditional therapies. They are creating a field called integrative medicine or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Integrative medicine combines the best of traditional medicine with alternative medicine to maximize benefits for the patient."
Abstract The paper discusses the increasing trend worldwide towards alternativemedicine, which encompasses a diverse group of healing therapies that include chiropractic, homeopathy, massage therapy, acupuncture, herbal medications and many others. The paper notes that although alternativemedicine has been around for centuries, it is not accepted by all due to the lack of studies and medical trials, unlike conventional medical treatment. The paper goes on to discuss the differences between complementary and alternativemedicine and again, how they differ from conventional medicine, both in their approach and also treatments.
From the Paper "Complementary medicine aims to balance the whole person physically, mentally, and emotionally, while conventional medicine aims to cure the pathology. Examples of complementary medicine are acupuncture, yoga, music therapy, massage, and aromatherapy. There are numerous alternative medications that are currently being studied to validate their effectiveness as well as assess potential side effects. Recent studies have concentrated on the use of omega-3 fatty acids for bipolar disorder, while several randomized controlled trials have investigated on St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), acupuncture, and S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), a derivative of L-methionine, as alternative treatments for major depression."
Abstract The paper evaluates different types of alternativemedicine in today's society, which serve as viable alternatives to more traditional therapies. The paper explains that these alternatives serve as feasible opportunities for individuals to refrain from the potential harshness of chemically-based medications and compounds that many individuals do not consider as effective.
From the Paper "Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that incorporates the use of needles of various sizes at specific points on the human body as a means of promoting physiological healing and normal function (Singer, 2004). This technique evolved in China, where individuals sought to alleviate their ills through the energy that was produced within all body systems and this enabled the insertion of needles to promote all systems to operate effectively and without the interference of illness or pain (Singer, 2004). There are a wide variety of needles that are utilized in this procedure, and the treatment is identified with a number of different categories, including the following: Electro-Acupuncture, which involves the use of electricity as a means of promoting healing; Sonopuncture, which involves sound waves and lasers; Moxibustion, which utilizes heat along with needles to encourage the healing process."
Abstract The author notes that the use of alternativemedicine in the form of acupuncture, European herbals, homeopathy, naturopathy, and Ayurvedic medicine has increased in recent years, due to dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of traditional medical treatment and limited access to and high costs of traditional medical care. But there are risks as well, and the paper concludes that much more research is needed before alternativemedicine can be considered safe and effective.
Abstract The term alternativemedicine covers a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches and therapies. It generally describes those treatments and health care practices that are outside mainstream Western health care. This paper examines the history of alternativemedicine, its risks and values. The paper discusses the different streams which make up alternativemedicine such as accupuncture, mind-body healing, yoga and chiropractic therapy. Also discussed is craniosacral therapy, massage therapy, herbal medicine and aromatherapy.
From the Paper "Alternative health care is not easily defined. Often it is explained by describing what it is not. Alternative health care is not the scientific practice of nursing, or medicine as it has come to be understood in first world countries during this century. Throughout recorded history, people of various cultures have relied on what Western medical practitioners today call alternative medicine. The term alternative medicine covers a broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies. It generally describes those treatments and health care practices that are outside mainstream Western health care."
Abstract The purpose of this investigation is to test the explanatory power of the role of self-efficacy and the Health Belief Model as it contributes to CAM (contemporary and alternativemedicine) use by active duty military members. The investigation is also framed within the perspective of a consumer decision making study and consumer behavior study with regards to the use of CAM within this sample of the U.S. population. During the course of this investigation, the prevalence of CAM use among U.S. Naval personnel stationed aboard an Atlantic fleet ship and the reasons behind their decision to use CAM, is also catalogued. The research tests variables important to understanding CAM use within the context of the Health Belief Model. Data is collected via researcher-administered surveys, based on "Receptivity", a survey developed and modified from the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) used by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia.
Abstract
Chapter 1 Introduction
Introduction to CAM
Alternative Medical Systems
Mind-Body Interventions
Biologically Based Therapies
Manipulative and Body-Based Methods
Energy Therapies
Introduction to the Problem
Background of the study
Statement of the Problem
Research Hypothesis
Definition of Terms
Assumptions and Limitations
Chapter 2 Literature Review
Introduction
History of HBM Research
History of CAM Research
Growing acceptance within the medical community
Demographic Profile of CAM Users
Reasons for Using AlternativeMedicine HBM Overview
Conclusion
Chapter 3 Methodology
Introduction
Instrument
Pilot Study
Research Design
Study Population
Design Sample
From the Paper "Alternative medicine has become the largest growth industry in health care in the US (Schneiderman, 2000). A frequently cited 1998 national survey on CAM (contemporary and alternative medicine) use in the United States determined that 4 out of every 10 Americans has used, or regularly uses, at least one alternative medical therapy, resulting in a combined total of $27 billion spent by American CAM users in 1997 (Eisenberg et al., 1998). By the year 2000, research indicated that nearly half of Americans were using unconventional treatments (Schneiderman, 2000). The Eisenberg et al. study also reported that from 1990-1997, herbal remedy use in the United States had increased by 380% and high dose vitamin use increased by 130% (Eisenberg et al., 1998). Studies have similarly indicated that the majorities of these expenses are being burdened by the user and, for the most part are a cash and carry enterprise. For this reason alone, many healthcare plans have chosen to offer at least partial coverage of CAM services to its enrollees."
Abstract The paper explains the differences between alternativemedicine and complimentary medicine and discusses the widespread creation of fraudulent "cures" that exist across the globe. The paper discusses government regulation and the varying structures of alternative medical practices. The paper looks at the challenges facing the alternativemedicine field and concludes that scientific research will aid in changing the many negative opinions of physicians and their patients.
Outline:
Overview
Analysis of Health Service Setting
Challenges
From the Paper "Alternative medicine can be defined as medicine that is outside of the realm of traditional medical practices, but that is safe a proven to be effective ("What Is", 2006, sec. 2). Alternative medicine is different than complimentary medicine in that alternative medicine is used instead of traditional practices, while complementary medicine in used in conjunction with traditional practices. In some cases, however, alternative medicine can also be considered as complementary medicine. This has been especially true in relation to Chinese Traditional Medicine. An example of this could be the use of acupuncture by a cancer patient that is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, but that uses acupuncture as a means of reducing the pain or discomfort associated with the treatments. Yet, acupuncture itself can be used as an alternative medicine for many patients that desire to undergo this type of whole body treatment in place of traditional medical practices."
Abstract The paper defines the alternative and complimentary medical systems and relates that these systems have contributed to improving the quality of care delivery. The paper discusses several problems, however, with alternative and complimentary medicine and concludes that a judicious approach is necessary for developing integrated medical practices that optimise medical care.
Outline:
Introduction
Complementary and AlternativeMedicine Conclusion
From the Paper "As the name suggests, alternative therapies are implied to be alternatives for conventional medical therapy; for example special dietary therapy for curing cancer as an alternative to radiation and surgical intervention. Complimentary therapy on the other hand is used alongside allopathic treatment. [NIH] From a health administrator's perspective, a thorough understanding of these complementary and alternative medical practices is necessary as integrated medicine is proving to be more effective in the treatment and management of many disease conditions. In 1998, the US government founded the NCCAM, for a scientific study and integration of successful alternative medical systems into the mainstream medical practice. [Edwin L.Cooper] "
Abstract This paper discuses the evolution and use of complementary alternativemedicine (CAM) and its growing acceptance worldwide, including the United States. The paper also explains the reasons for CAM's growing popularity as an alternative to conventional medicine and sites several studies on the topic.
From the Paper "Complementary alternative medicine is popular throughout the industrialized world and its use is increasing in the United States. Herbal medicine, massage, mega vitamins, self-help groups, folk remedies, energy healing, and homeopathy, were the therapies that increased the most."
Abstract This paper claims that society has come to understand, over the course of the past few decades, that traditional medicines are not always effective for every human being. It explains the rise in the popularity of holistic treatments has across the globe. These alternatives in health care include many approaches and theories. The paper mentions that each approach utilizes the primary concept of health that focuses on the mind, body and spirit.
From the Paper "Society has come to understand over the course of the past few decades that traditional medicines are not always effective for every human being. The rise in popularity of holistic treatments has, therefore, been growing across the globe. These alternatives in health care include many approaches and theories. However, each utilizes the primary concept of health that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. Holistic medicines are believed to have existed for thousands of years, and were discussed in depth by Socrates because of his belief that illness could not be treated effectively if the entire person was not also treated in the process of healing ("Holistic", n.d.). Currently holistic medicines are often used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments as a means of approaching the complete wellness of the individual. Holistic medicines are also often selected as treatments by patients when traditional medical interventions have ..."
Abstract The paper identifies the key issues related to alternativemedicine therapies in today's society, whereby nurses are required to provide care and treatment that does not always emphasize the alleviation of pain and suffering. The paper explains how alternative therapies serve as an effective means of offering patients with new treatment regimens for alleviating symptoms and illness.
From the Paper "In today's society, it is strongly evident that medical care is comprised of a wide variety of techniques and therapies that are designed to promote health and wellness. However, alternative therapies are also available, which encourage well being without many of the side effects of chemical and technological interventions. In the modern world, evidence suggests that many traditional therapies tend to cause more harm than good to patients and therefore it is strongly recommended that other alternatives must be considered in order to promote improved health and wellness. I believe that alternative therapies are the key to future success for many individuals as a means of eradicating illness and its symptoms; however, this is not the only choice for some patients, as traditional therapies are deemed more effective in treating some types of illnesses on a long-term basis."
This paper is a compilation of detailed information in a format easily utilized by a graduate student studying alternativemedicine, a literature review, and a discussion of recommendations.
Abstract This paper explains that there is nothing inherent in many alternative medical therapies that specifically distinguishes them from the way contemporary drugs and surgery are employed because these are simply tools in the hands of a practitioner. The author makes a clear and compelling case for the establishment of a national clearinghouse for alternative health care system information for the general public and health care practitioners alike. The paper points out that regulatory constraints may keep important information about the potential benefits of alternative treatment modalities from consumers.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background and Overview
Research Design
Seven Fields of Practice and Their Features
Mind Body Interventions
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Bioelectromagnetics Applications
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Alternative Systems
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Manual Healing Systems
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Pharmacological & Biological Treatments
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Herbal Medicine Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Diet & Nutrition
Definition
Underlying Theory/Philosophy
Major Features
Practice Modalities (Specific Therapies)
Common Areas
Unique Features
Primary Applications
Evidence of Effects of Practice
Cost Effectiveness
Controversial Issues
Literature Review
Critique of Research
Data analysis, including statistical procedures used
Conclusions and Recommendations
Replicability
From the Paper "The comparative efficacy of acupuncture and electroacupuncture can be measured using a sample of rats. Though unable to self-report pain, rats have still been shown to respond to acupuncture treatments versus control groups. This study was able to induce a hypoglycaemic effect in rats when applied to abdominal acupoints. However, this and other studies provide a basis for further research and should not influence the decision for treatment of human diabetes by acupuncture. However, this research does suggest that electroacupuncture is not a placebo effect, as rats do not respond to such effects."
Abstract This paper clarifies the differences between conventional and alternativemedicine. The paper first discusses why people in certain cultures opt to use alternativemedicine rather then conventional, and then looks at the advantages of alternativemedicine and what we can learn from it. Additionally, the paper looks at why a majority of practitioners are now utilizing what can be called contemporary medicine.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Literature Review
From the Paper "The method used by Astin (1998) for testing were mail surveys that gathered information on use of alternative health care, perceived benefits and risks of these therapies, health beliefs and attitudes, views toward and experiences with conventional medicine, political beliefs, and worldview. The results were that relief of symptoms is the main benefit reported a central finding is that users of alternative health care are no more dissatisfied with or distrustful of conventional care than nonusers are (Astin, 1998). Second, the results can help identify and clarify prevailing cultural conceptions about and attitudes toward health and illness and examine the degree to which the growing interest in alternative medicine may represent a type of cultural paradigm shift regarding health beliefs and practices."
