Where Two Worlds Meet

For many people, traditional Western medical care is the only choice. But for others, less conventional methods, from acupuncture to herbal therapy, are also an option. One approach, often called “integrative” or “complementary” medicine, aims to combine the best of both.

Some of the more popular complementary health care therapies:

* Acupuncture: Thin needles and, in some cases, herbs are used to improve energy flow throughout the body.

* Chiropractic: Spinal adjustments are made to improve health, flexibility and movement, and reduce pain.

* Massage therapy: Touch is used to improve blood flow, relax muscles, relieve tension and reduce aches.

* Herbal therapy: Plant-based remedies are used to treat various health problems.

In the world of complementary care, the whole person--not just the illness or the symptoms--is the focus. This comes from the belief that one’s health often can be improved from within. Therefore, those providing such care might ask you about your personal life, your job, your beliefs, as well as your physical symptoms.

Will complementary care work for you? It may. You’ll need to discuss questions with your medical doctor and talk to different complementary practitioners. Things to ask your medical doctor:

* What concerns do you have about complementary care?

* Do you recommend any type of care or a specific provider?

* Will this care interfere with my current treatment, such as any prescription drugs I am taking?

Questions you might ask complementary care providers include:

* Will you work with my medical provider?

* What benefits and side effects can I expect from this care?

* What licensing, certification and membership in professional organizations do you have?

And, of course, research. Try your library, the Internet or some of the following:

* American Assn. of Naturopathic Physicians, (206) 298-0126.

* American Assn. of Oriental Medicine, (610) 433-2448.

* American Massage Therapy Assn., (847) 864-0123.

* National Institutes of Health Office of Alternative Medicine, (888) 644-6226.