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Ask the Doctor:
Considerations in Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Q: What is complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)?

A:The term is used to describe healing treatments that aren’t part of conventional medical training—such as acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga and herbal medicine. People used to consider practices like these outside the mainstream, which is why they got the name “alternative.” And, because they can be used to enhance traditional medical approaches, they are called “complementary.”

Conventional medicine is based on scientific knowledge of the body and uses treatments that have been proven effective through scientific research. CAM is based on the belief that a medical care provider should treat the whole person: body, mind and spirit.

The techniques used in CAM are mostly less invasive than conventional medical practices—meaning they don’t rely on surgery or conventional medications. Experts have not researched many CAM techniques enough to tell how effective they are. Certain alternative, natural-type remedies are not regulated by the FDA and don’t have to adhere to the same standards of quality as prescription drugs. Some types of CAM practitioners can cause problems, as there is no national organization that monitors many types of alternative care providers. Massage and acupuncture specialists are regulated in the state of Wisconsin and must pass national examinations to be certified to practice.

It’s always best to consult your doctor and talk openly about any CAM techniques you want to try. Make sure that the complementary or alternative approach is not harmful and will not interfere with treatments you already receive. Perhaps the greatest risk is that you might delay or stop traditional medical treatment in favor of a CAM therapy, thus jeopardizing your health or healing.

Always let your relationship with your doctor be your guide as to which practices you can safely try while continuing your current plan of care.