Many people who seek alternative medicine do so because they have symptoms that have not been resolved through the use of traditional medical practices.  There are several types of alternative medical practices available to choose from.  These include chiropractic care, acupuncture, and naturopathic medicine.  The decision to seek alternative medicine is highly controversial and generally lacks the scientific foundations of traditional medicine.

Chiropractic medicine is a form of alternative medicine.  It is based upon the theory that all body systems respond and function to the nerves that are connected through the spinal cord.  Chiropractors use x-rays, spinal manipulation, and massage therapy in order to Alternative medicine is a non traditional approach to healing ailments within the human improve their patient’s health and well being.  Many chiropractors believe that the proper alignment of the spinal column will prevent many human conditions ranging from allergies or heart conditions.  Chiropractic medicine has been around for centuries and many people continue to use this type of alternative medicine in order to improve their back and neck pain.

Acupuncture is another type of alternative medicine.  This type of alternative medicine dates back to ancient Chinese culture.  There has been scientific research done with respects to acupuncture since the late 20th Century.  Acupuncture is done by inserting and manipulating needles into specific places in the body to increase blood flow and relieve pain.  Acupuncturists believe that there are 14 channels in the body in which blood flows through.  Within these 14 channels, there are “ash” points in which blood has become stagnated and therefore causes pain.  By inserting and manipulating needs within the “ash” points, blood flow is increased and pain is decreased.

Naturopathy is a type of alternative medicine that relies on the body’s own ability to heal itself with the use of things that occur naturally within our world.  Naturopathy is a holistic approach to medicine and minimizes the use of traditional drugs and surgeries.  Instead, naturopathic medicine focuses on diet, lifestyle, and the healing powers of nature to cure human conditions.  Many people who follow this type of alternative medicine are opposed to vaccinating themselves and their children against many common diseases.  The decision not to vaccinate their children is based upon the belief that given the opportunity, the human body will defend itself against disease.  Vaccinations are viewed as introducing disease into the human body with the potential of devastating effects.

Alternative medicine is gaining in popularity in the United States.  It is not uncommon to find licensed medical doctors who combine the alternative medicine practice into their healing.  The decision to use alternative medicine, traditional medicine, or a combination of the two is highly based upon individual beliefs about health and wellness.  Alternative medicine is not as scientifically researched as traditional medicine.  Many health insurance companies do not cover the costs of alternative medicine because of the lack of licensing, regulation, and proven effects of the practice.  The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate many of the remedies utilized by alternative medicine.  The consumer must evaluate their own health and response to treatment when deciding on whether to use alternative medicine.