Chapter 23

 

Complementary, Alternative and Integrative Therapies

 

Linda Moore, EdD, APRN, BC (ANP, GNP), MSCN

Kathy Jones, APRN, BC, ACNP

 

Introduction

An alternative or complementary modality can be a healthy intervention considered “unapproved” by allopathic providers. Alternative and complementary treatments are sought by individuals often independent of their allopathic providers. Times are changing and many allopathic providers are integrating alternative and complementary therapies with western allopathic (evidence-based) treatments for improved client outcomes.   Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioners want to work co-operatively with traditional health care providers to develop a holistic, patient centered in an integrated health care system (Barrett, Marchand, et al., 2004).  Maximizing the body’s healing ability by combining traditional medications with alternative therapies tends to treat the whole person through physical, mental and spiritual methods rather than just the pathological process (Barnes, Powell-Griner et al., 2004).

Complementary and alternative medicine is based on a quote by Henry David Thoreau “Nature is doing her best each moment to make us well. She exists for no other  end. Do not resist. With the least inclination to be well, we should not be sick.” (Pizzorono & Murray, 1999, p.3.) This is the very foundation of naturopathic medicine.

While much of the literature in the past has referred to alternative therapies, this chapter will use the word “alternative” when specifically described in the literature review; however, medical schools teaching concepts of complementary/alternative therapies have chosen to consider these as a part of integrative medicine to be used in combination with the traditional western medicine.  Alternative and complementary treatments do not require a prescription by a traditional health care provider.  In fact, the allopathic provider may or may not be aware of complementary treatments with which the client is participating.

Alternative and complementary therapies are not new.  They have been utilized for thousands of years. Often these treatments were sole therapies for diseases before antibiotics, physical therapy, chiropractic, and other treatment modalities were available.   As an example, bloodletting is gaining resurgence for polycythemia, but has also been used for many complaints and illnesses ranging from epilepsy, pneumonia and hydrocephalus (Byard, 2001).    Leeching is being studied and utilized for its hemolytic treatment and in improving venous supply for free-flap skin graphs (Thearle, 1998).  Bloodletting of ancient times was probably the precursor of the current concepts of therapeutic phlebotomy (i.e.,in hemochromatosis, used to remove the excessive iron from the blood) and plasmaphoresis (Rakel, 2000).

Complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies have gained increasing popularity in this decade in the United States.  Whether this interest is related to the cost of traditional health care, difficulty getting an appointment in a timely manner for a non-acute problem, or the recommendation of a friend about the success of a particular remedy, alternative therapies must be understood due to their interactions with traditional, evidenced based Western medicine.  Additionally however, “off-label” use of traditional medications that are accepted by health care providers has similarities to use of herbal therapies when neither are proven by rigorous research and neither are FDA approved as treatment for specific diseases or preventions (Carey & Barrett, 2004).

The inclusion of this chapter in this book is due to the fact that nontraditional  therapies (i.e., herbs, acupuncture, massage therapy) have increasing use in the United States by practitioners who are providing holistic care for their clients and many individuals are using various techniques and herbs without consideration as to the interaction with the traditional Western medicine.  Recent surveys estimate that between 50 to 70 percent of adults in the United States use one or more alternative therapies (Fontaine, 2005).  Other researchers have found that total visits to alternative providers exceed visits to conventional practitioners (Bodane & Brownson, 2002; Eisenberg et al., 2001; Kaler & Revella, 2002; Kessler, Davis & Foster, 2001).  It has been estimated that over $30 billion are spent annually on various alternative therapies (Ambrose & Samuels, 2004).  With the continued use of the internet and availability of information, this amount will continue to increase significantly.        

This chapter will focus on some of the more popular complementary and alternative modalities that are used as integrative therapies, while providing brief insight into some less commonly used therapies.  “Walking in balance”, the Native American culture philosophy of peaceful coexistence and harmony with all aspects of life (Fontaine, 2005), best describes how complementary and alternative therapies blend with traditional Western medicine. 

Why Individuals Seek Integrative/Complementary Treatments

Clients with chronic illness often live with symptomotology such as chronic pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or abdominal discomfort.  Traditional or allopathic medicine may offer ‘relief’ to a certain degree, but tends to fall short of long term relief or cure. The three most common conditions for which adults used CAM were for back pain or discomfort (16.8%), head or chest cold (9.5%) and neck pain (6.6%).  (Barnes et al., 2004) Frustration ensues on the part of the client and the care provider when complete management of symptoms such as debilitating pain and disease process does not occur (Astin, 1998).  Immigrants who have had their alternative therapies practiced with conventional medicine (i.e., Ayurveda in India, acupuncture in China and Kampo in Japan) expect to continue in that practice in the United States (WHO, 2001). 

Negative interactions with allopathic health care professionals leave clients and families with a sense of distrust, therefore rejecting treatments offered by allopathic providers. Once the client and family trust and confidence is lost, it is difficult if not impossible to re-establish that relationship. Belief and confidence in the practitioner is crucial for adherence and treatment success (Selecting a CAM practitioner, nccam.nih.gov/health/practitioner/index.htm).  Attitudes of warmth and caring can often be overshadowed by a cold, impersonal, inconvenient, sterile, high-tech work environment that leaves client feeling a sense of  loneliness, lack of control and autonomy for their own care.  A popular belief of clients is that the overall influence of  the healthcare industry is “to emphasize drug therapy at the expense of  other modalities: psychotherapy, social approaches, nutritional, herbal, and natural remedies, rehabilitation, general hygienic measures, non-patentable drugs or other alternative approaches.” (Whitaker, 1995, p. 4)   Trust has to be maintained in the very industry that was thought to treat and preserve life, the medical field. Other countries (i.e., Australia, Germany) have already recognized the collaboration between practitioners using CAM and the “regular” doctors in order to provide safe and effective management for patients (Cohen, 2004).  In the United States, complementary and alternative medicine practitioners have barriers to working with conventional medicine.  Barrett et al. (2004) surveyed 32 CAM practitioners in one-on-one interviews to determine what were positives and negatives about integration of conventional medicine and complementary medicine.  While the CAM practitioners wanted to collaborate and had significant respect for conventional medicine, they felt a barrier to accessibility in health care facilities and that attitudes and beliefs were large impediments to integration of CAM with conventional medicine.  To validate knowledge and capability, some of the alternative specialties are regulated and licensed, however, this does not provide a guarantee about success of the therapy any more than conventional medicine can (Fontaine, 2005).  The perception is that pharmaceutical companies, physicians and health care providers may a profit prescribing drugs (Whitaker, 1995, pp. 4-7).

Most recently published by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), was a survey conducted in the United States in 2002 of the most commonly used complementary and alternative medicines (CAM).  The information utilized the data from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS).  Over 31,000 interviews were conducted with persons over the age of 18 years of age who had used CAM within the past 12 months.   The results indicated that over 60% of adults surveyed used some from of complementary and alternative medicine (Barnes et al., 2004).   The areas of high use include the following:

Table 23-1

 

 

Prayer                                                                                                                     45.2%

Prayer specifically for one’s own health                          43.0%

Prayer by others for one’s own health                             24.4%

Prayer groups for one’s own health                                   9.6%

Healing ritual for own health                                                                2.0%

Nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products                                      18.9%

Deep breathing exercises                                                                    11.6%

Meditation                                                                                                              7.6%

Chiropractic care                                                                                    7.5%

Yoga                                                                                                                         5.1%

Massage                                                                                                                  5.0%

Diet-based therapies                                                                                             3.5%

Progressive Relaxation                                                                      3.0%

Megavitamin therapy                                                                                            2.8%

Guided imagery                                                                                      2.1%

Homeopathy                                                                                                          1.7%

Tai chi                                                                                                                      1.3%

Acupuncture                                                                                                          1.1%

Energy healing/Reiki                                                                                             0.5%

 

Source: Barnes et al., 2004, p 8

 

Since individuals were likely to use more than one type of modality, the percentages exceeded 100% as this list is an accumulation of various alternatives and complementary therapies used by the people surveyed.

 

Problems and Issues Related to Integrative and Complementary Modalities

There are many difficulties surrounding treatments with integrative and complementary modalities. Seeking and finding a reputable and competent clinician in the integrative arena can be daunting. Certain treatments can conflict with spiritual, social, familial values, traditional medical therapies and beliefs. Research with cannabis extracts (marijuana) has met with opposition due to the social aspects of encouraging the use (smoking) of an illegal substance.  However, research has found that cannabis extracts can improve neurogenic symptoms that have been unresponsive to traditional therapies (Wade, Robson, et al., 2003: Smith, 2004).   Additionally, the socially unacceptable therapy has been found to decrease the intraocular pressure thereby aiding in the treatment of glaucoma (Duke, 1997).  

The treatments sought may be incongruent with allopathic treatment plans and may be dangerous. Laird and Webb (2001) illustrated this in a case report where undiagnosed dementia may predispose older adults to psychosis when taking St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum).  Persons with chronic illnesses may have been convinced by friends to try various herbal therapies/supplements for their chronic condition.  Many of these alternatives have potential risks associated with combination of herbals/supplements with prescribed medications and do not share this information with their health care provider (Barnes, Powell-Griner, et al, 2004).

Not only should there be concern about herbals and interactions with traditional therapies, it has also been found that some persons have increased anxiety while practicing relaxation techniques.  Lazarus and Mayne (1990) found that relaxation techniques had some limitations and side effects that needed to be considered.  Others have written about side effects and negative responses to techniques for stress management (Astin, et al., 2004; Woolfolk & Lehrer, 1993).

Many available alternative therapies and modalities have no credible scientific basis, therefore insurance companies may not recognize the treatment as a reimbursable benefit. Patients assume that herbs for prevention and treatment purposes are safe because they consider these therapies as “natural”, however, that is certainly not always the case.  A lack of published research with herbals/alternative therapies leaves the practitioner and insurance companies in a gray area of treatment/non-treatment from these therapies (Zink & Chaffin, 1998).   The lack of research and documentation of research evidence for various treatment modalities is a significant concern when it has been found that 8% to 10% of patients with confirmed tissue biopsy for cancer seek alternative therapies immediately (Cassileth, 1999; Cassileth & Deng, 2004).

                 The high rate of use actually means enormous dollars spend on CAM therapies.  In 1997, over $47 billion was spent of these therapies as out-of-pocket services (Barnes, Powell-Griner, et al, 2004). 

Recently insurance companies are recognizing integrative therapies as viable treatment alternatives which is a forward step as other countries (i.e., Germany) has already found to be beneficial.  Dr. Niki Knold, a German physician, explains that alternative therapies are used before traditional medications (personnel conversations, September, 2003, December 2003, and June 2004; Blumenthal, 2000). One of the first insurance companies that has proven to be supportive of integrative/complementary therapies is Blue Cross and Blue Shield.  They devised ALT MED BLUE which provides a 25% reduction in the cost of selected integrative therapies such as: massage, chiropractic care, stress management, biofeedback, yoga, acupuncture, guided imagery, and nutrition education (www.bcbsnc.com/blueextras/altmed). Other insurance companies may provide similar programs in response to public outcry for treatment alternatives that have scientific and clinical data supporting outcomes.

Previous arguments by insurance companies suggested allopathic providers did not accept complementary modalities. This thinking forces clients to take expensive medications that insurance will cover which may have less than optimal outcomes.  This mindset prevents the client from making choices since they would become responsible for the full cost of treatment. A common example is the client with chronic back pain. Chiropractic care is scientifically reputable and replicated and may provide better relief than pain medications and muscle relaxers (Carey, Garrett, Jackson & Hadler, 1999).  As with any therapy or medication, insurance companies decide the amount of coverage, if any.  While this can be seen as a problem for alternative, it is also seen as a problem for traditional medicine.  With the acceptance of alternatives increasing among insurance companies, this is then seen as a positive approach to holistic care. Reimbursement may be considered by insurance companies on a case-by-case basis depending on the diagnosis and recognized data supporting the therapy. This process can be time consuming and require a tenacious client and health care professional to pursue coverage for an alternative treatment as they would for traditional medications and treatments.  Clients don’t always consider the cost or interactions when selecting vitamins, herbals, or other modalities and that they may have to cover the entire expense for “non proven” therapies. An example of this is the herbal therapy Hawthorn.  This herb has been useful in treating hypertension.  However, its cost and interaction with other antihypertensives could be very detrimental (Duke, 1997).According to Dr Julian Whitaker, a noted “wellness” MD in California, hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is used to reduce angina attacks by dilating coronary vessels. It is also reputed for treatment of heart failure. (Whitaker, 1995, p.157.)

Use of complementary and integrative therapies is reaching a wide audience, especially now that the National Institutes of Health have recognized the need for further recognition as to documented benefits or the lack of significant effects.  Acceptance of complementary therapies by health care professionals will benefit both the client and the provider by encouraging individuals to inform the provider about currently used therapies to be sure there are no interactions with therapies in the plan of care and to actually discuss the benefits of certain therapies for specific needs.

Evidenced Based Practice

                The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) mission have been to explore complementary and alternative practices using rigorous scientific methodology, train researchers and provide public with authoritative information (P.L. 102-170,  October 1991). Eighteen research centers, as of 2004, have been established to explore the safety and efficacy of various therapies (http://nccam.nih.gov/).  To expand the knowledge base of the use of alternative and complementary therapies, NIH, NCCAM supports a broad-based portfolio of research with educational grants, contracts and research funds (The NIH Almanac-Organization, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, http://www.nih.gov/, 2004). This funding source allows the process of evidenced based practice to expand.

In addition to the NCCAM, the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements supports and conducts research related to the role of dietary supplements and the influence of these on health.  Further research is essential due to the rise of self-help books found in American households, information on the internet and the proliferation of health food stores that have information without research evidence (Office of Dietary Supplements, http://dietary-supplements, info.nih.gov).  The Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) originated from the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (P.L. 103-417, DSHEA).  The office was developed to explore more fully the potential role of dietary supplements to improve health care, to promote scientific study, and conduct and collect results of scientific research  (dietary-supplements.info.nih.gov, retrieved 12/23/2004). While research continues to support a scientific basis for alternative therapies for health conditions, clinical evidence has long been a method of informal documentation based on limited case reports for various alternative therapies.  With the addition of the NCCAM at NIH, more evidenced based practice will be determined for the appropriate use of various modalities.  In evaluating literature and internet resources, one must be cognizant of the research methodology to better analyze the information being presented.  Often a marketing expert is the one convincing the reader of the success of the product not a researcher.  

                The ideal study is experimental methodology that utilizes a control group and an experimental group with similar characteristics.  While the experimental group receives the treatment modality, the control group does not and may be getting a placebo.  

                There is more qualitative research being done to determine persons’ perceptions and the individual responses (Astin, Shapiro, et al., 2003).  The qualitative studies build a body of knowledge that describes characteristics and experiences that people have.  The use of some complementary treatments has continued from these experiences (Barnes, Powell-Griner, et al., 2004).  However, some use of complementary therapies is based on clinical effects.  This method is used by developing a perception of how persons respond.  If the modality seems to work for a number of persons, the person using the modality will continue.  This is not far from what is done in medicine in the use of medicines considered to be “off label” where they are prescribed for something not FDA approved. (Carey & Barrett, 2004).

 

Complementary and Alternative Interventions

Alternative and complementary regimens may augment allopathic treatments. In cancer, clients may benefit from dietary changes, exercise, and different herbs (Redd, Montgomery & DuHamel, 2001; Syrjala, Donaldson, et al, 1995). Cardiac patients may benefit from prayer that decreases the length of their hospital stay and affects their mortality and morbidity (Harris et al., 1999). It is beneficial to utilize all treatment modalities that complement healing, stimulate immune function and reduce inflammation.

Studies (Astin, 1998; Quinn, 2000) have demonstrated specific reasons why consumers choose alternative therapies.  Reasons include: seeking a degree of wellness not supported in traditional medicine, quality of life issues, involvement in the decisions about health and care, lack of effectiveness from conventional medicines, avoiding toxicities of conventional medicine, and identifying a healing system that is a part of one’s cultural background. Health care professionals need to have a beginning level of understanding the various types of therapies that clients may use. For example, current information is on-line about the benefits and harm from using herbals (Sand-Jecklin, Hoggatt  & Badzek, 2004). 

 

Holistic Health Care

                Holistic care considers all aspects of the mind, body and spirit. Currently, there are few educational institutions that are educating physicians in the use of complementary and integrative health care practices.  However, centers of integrative health have expanded across the country to provide individuals with the alternative of managing health through an expanded use of traditional western medicine and complementary and integrative care.  As of November 2004, there were 25 Centers as part of the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine (Consortium of Academic Health Centers, www.pcintegrativemedicine.org/documents/ConsortiumSummary.pdf). The mission of the Consortium is to educate about and conduct research regarding integrative medicine. Major universities are included in this list of 25 including some of the top medical schools in the country (Harvard, Duke University, and Georgetown, as examples. Nursing has continued to move toward a caring and healing model (Watson, 1997).   Nursing is a combination of science and art.  The science component has been more widely studied and advances described in the literature.  The art of nursing appears less clearly defined.  Nurses who practice care in a holistic manner consider the whole individual and include health and wellness within the context or their illness.  It must be recognized that persons make choices about their care and these choices affect their health/wellness continuum.  It is imperative that the nursing professional be attuned to the client’s perceptions, values, beliefs, attitudes, stages of change and the barriers to motivation to help move individuals to their maximum wellness potential (Gaydos, 2005). 

                Some alternative and complementary  therapies describe the concept of body and mind interaction in terms of an aura or the energy field that surrounds the individual. Nursing has recognized the importance of the cultural aspects of care and the holistic concept of mind, body and spirit in the development of nursing art and science. Nursing theories have focused on this concept of holistic care and energy fields with the most well known being Martha Rogers with her nursing theory of unitary human beings and the use of therapeutic touch (Rogers, 1990).  There is a certificate program in Healing Touch for Health Care Professionals offered by the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA).  This program has expanded the concept of therapeutic touch (Fontaine, 2005).

 

Cultural Integration

Inclusion of complementary and integrative health is an area of care that may be associated with one’s culture and ethnic background.  Included in the cultural area is the concept of spirituality that represents the wholeness of life.  Many alternative therapies have originated through the traditions of spirituality (Krippner, 1995).  Most spiritual traditions share the concept that energy is the link between the spirit and the physical being (Fontaine, 2005).  Each culture has a different view of this energy and describe it in terms of the connection to provide a wholeness in one’s life. 

Many American subgroups continue to utilize aspects of their ancestry for healing and comfort. These modalities can be spiritual, nutritional, behavioral, and familial. Familiarity can be very comforting when one is challenged with a life-threatening illness. Laying on of hands, spiritual prayers, and other rituals can provide significant change in outcomes for patients. There is profound comfort and rest when patients relinquish control to their “higher power”  Ayurvedic which is practiced in India is one example of how a traditional modality is practiced at the national level within the Federal health system of India ( Barnes, et al., 2004). 

                Many integrative therapies originated thousands of years ago and date back to spiritual customs of various groups.  Yoga, originally from India, is one example and focuses on unification of the mind, body and inner spirit with the universe (Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center, 1998). 

Chakras (the Hindu concept of energy) describes seven energy centers that provide the electromagnetic activity and the circulation of vital energy (Shang, 2001).  This concept is described by several South American cultures and many Eastern cultures.    The seven chakras are vertically aligned through the center midline of the body and each represent a focal point relating to physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of one’s life.  The purpose of chakras is to maintain equilibrium of health and persons skilled in the techniques of working with chakras can feel the energy source that is not in balance (Shange, 2001; Slater, 1995) .

 This concept has expanded to western culture with a program to reverse coronary artery blockage prescribed by Dr. Dean Ornish.  Ornish (1999) uses the heart chakra and integrates diet, exercise, support groups and meditation into his program.

                While the United States is in the infancy of evaluating complementary and alternative therapies, European countries have been consistently providing information regarding alternatives to traditional medications.  The most reputable source is from Germany with the Commission E reports of alternatives (Blumenthal, 2000).  The United States is providing source titled PDR on Herbals (2000).  This volume is similar to the traditional Physicians Desk Reference (PDR).  Several of the CAMs practiced today relate to specific cultures.  Ayurved is practiced at the national level in India, and Kampo is the herbal medicine system practiced in Japan.  Additionally, the multiple therapies from China (i.e., acupuncture, acupressure, herbal medicine, tai chi, and qi qong) are a part of the national system of health care in their countries  Barnes, et al., 2004)

Selecting a practitioner

There are inconsistencies in licensure and certification for many practitioners of integrative treatments (reference and provide an example). For example, a licensed, (graduate from a board-certified massage school) massage therapist can legitimately perform a massage, but it would be best for the therapist  to have a national certification. This certification recognizes the same knowledge-base of all massage therapists. There are state-by-state regulations for licensure and practice.  The various states boards of medicine and the state laws provides detailed information on the registration, licenses required to practice various forms of alternative and complementary therapies (www.healthy.net/public/legal-lg/regulations/acustlaw.htm).  It is difficult for the average health care consumer to decide what provider is reputable and skilled. As previously discussed, word of mouth and recommendations by trusted healthcare professionals are excellent sources for referral. Contacting certification boards and schools which teach a certain modality are other sources for reputable providers.  Some insurance companies have limits on coverage as they do with physical/occupational therapy and will cover only a certain number of visits for therapies (i.e., acupuncture, massage).  Clients may need to check with their individual insurance companies as to reimbursement

 

Reputable and Competent Clinicians

As with allopathic medicine, there are “specialists” in integrative therapies. Many clients have been to a “specialist” in allopathic medicine, and the same experts exist in complementary medicine. Many complementary practitioners specialize in one or two therapeutic options.  There are healthcare professionals that overlap in their skills, such as a medical doctor or nurse practitioner who are also certified in acupuncture or acupressure. Verification of credentialing and/or certification before utilizing complementary providers is essential. Build a network of reputable integrative providers and share it with your colleagues. 

                Tiedje (1998) provides guidelines to avoid certain healers:

·         If they say they have all the answers;

·         If they maintain that theirs is the only effective therapy;

·         If they promise overnight success;

·         If they refuse to include other practitioners as part of the healing team; and

·         If they seem more interested in money than in people’s well-being.

 

               

Treatment Modalities

Healthcare professionals should assist clients in decisions that will be therapeutic and beneficial for their particular symptoms or diagnosis. Considering the therapies in Table 2 requires recognizing the basic program of naturopathic healing (Murray & Pizzorno, 1991, Pizzorno & Murray, 1999).

1.        The elimination of evil habits (“over-eating, alcoholic beverages, drugs, tobacco, tea, coffee, cocoa, meat eating, sexual and social aberrations, improper hours of living…” (Murray & Pizzorno, 1991, p.5).

2.        Corrective Habits: “Correct breathing, correct exercise, right mental attitude. Moderation in the pursuit of health and wealth” (Murray & Pizzorno, 1991, p.5).

3.        New Principles of Living: “Proper fasting, selection of food, hydrotherapy, light and air baths, mud baths, osteopathy, chiropractic and other forms of mechanotherapy…” (Murray & Pizzorno, 1991, p.5).

Many of the modalities and treatments can be grouped into several systems of complementary care.  For the purpose of this chapter, the modalities will be grouped.   This chapter is not all inclusive but provides an overview of therapies. 

TABLE 23-1 Complementary and Alternative Modalities and/or Integrative Modalities

 

Category of Modality

 

Specific Modalities

MANUAL HEALING THERAPIES

Chiropractic

Osteopathy

Massage ( Myofascial, Rolfing, Shiatsu,

    Swedish)

Therapeutic Touch

Laying on of hands

Acupressure        

Acupuncture

Reflexology

Craniosacral therapy

MIND/BODY THERAPIES

Yoga/ Tai Chi

Meditation

Hypnosis

Light therapy

Color and/or Music Therapy

Relaxation

SPIRITUAL

Prayer

Pet Therapy

Shamanism

Imagery

Ayurveda

ENERGY THERAPIES

Biofeedback

Reiki

Magnets

Crystals

Aroma therapy

Polarity

NUTRITION AND SUPPLEMENTS

Diets (Low sodium for cardiac/

            Hypertensive,  Calorie and     

               carbohydrate controlled for                                                                              diabetes mellitus

                Low fat diets for cholesterol

                management

                Weight control includes numerous

                diets (Weight Watchers, South

                Beach, Atkins, Zone)

Herbals

Vitamins, minerals and specific foods

Homeopathy        

Chelation Therapy

MOVEMENT THERAPIES

Kinesiology

Dance

Aquatherapy

Tai Chi

 

 

 

 

Manual Healing Therapies

 

There are a number of therapies involving physical touch that have continued for generations.  Selected examples of these as noted in Table 1 are discussed in this section. 

Chiropractic Medicine

Chiropractic practice considers the vertebral manipulation an important practice to prevent and improve chronic pain, decrease persistent drug use and avoid certain surgeries with regular treatments.  Research indicates that a majority of patients seek chiropractic care for musculoskeletal conditions of the back and neck (Hurwitz, Coulter, Adams, Genovese & Shekelle, 1998).  The majority of this care is reduction of mal-alignment of the spinal bones.  Most patients continue with their primary care provider while seeing the chiropractor for specific treatments (Sherman, Cherkin, et al., 2004).   In a study by Sherman, et al. (2004), chiropractic has been used by the largest fractions of respondents (54%) primarily for back pain.  Most respondents in this study indicated they would “very likely” try chiropractic, acupuncture or massage for back pain if their physician thought it was a reasonable treatment modality or if they did not have to pay as out of pocket expense (Sherman, Cherkin, et al., 2004).

Doctors of Osteopathy

                Osteopaths are trained in allopathic principles. Osteopaths treat the whole person instead of one system or a specified ailment. Osteopaths believe the structure of the body is intimately related to its function. Many forms of movement modalities may be incorporated into the healing plan. Osteopaths can prescribe medications as an adjunct to their movement and manipulation therapies. Osteopathy originated in the US in the last of the nineteenth century (Goldberg et al., 1994). Traditionally, the osteopath blends conventional medicine with manipulative treatments to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. (Goldberg et al., 1994).  Typically they use manual medicine techniques to relieve pain, restore range of motion and enhance the body’s capacity to heal.  Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s) like their medical counterparts, must pass a national or state board examination in order to obtain a license to practice medicine.  There are over 37,000 D.O.s in all 50 states and the District of Columbia (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, 2004) 

Mind/Body Therapies

                A number of these therapies had their beginnings thousands of years ago in Asian countries (Barnes, et al, 2004).  Some of the more common therapies will be discussed, while others Table 2 can be reviewed in other sources.

Yoga

                Yoga has been used for centuries. Yoga centers around meditation, breathing and postures (Oken, Kishiyama, et al., 2004).  There are several techniques of yoga practiced, with the most common in the United States being Iyengar yoga.  This form uses a stationary position and then alternates isometric contraction and relaxation of various muscle groups (Oken, et al., 2004).  Oken et al.’s study (2004) of 69 multiple sclerosis patients using yoga, exercise class and a control group found that fatigue was improved compared to the exercise class and control group (p< 0.001).   

Studies have shown some success with yoga and carpal tunnel syndrome.  Symptoms were significantly improved as compared to wrist splints or placebo effect, and there was significant reduction of pain and increase in grip strength (Garfinkel et al., 1998).   

Meditation

Under mind-body therapies, meditation was listed as the third highest use therapy after prayer and deep breathing exercises (Barnes et al., 2004). Research has documented physiologic effects from the practice of meditation (Goldberg et al., 1994). These effects include decrease blood pressure, decreased heart and respiratory rates, decreased oxygen consumption, increased elimination of carbon dioxide, increase in alpha brain waves, decreased plasma cortisol, increased EEG alpha wave (Jevning et al., 1992, Goldberg et al., 1994).  Astin et al. ( 2003) reported in a meta analysis of mind-body research that meditation was one of the areas that had been researched for positive response to pain and treatment-related symptoms of cancer. Deng et al (2004) supported the concept of complementary therapies to decrease cancer-related symptoms.  Others have found evidence of decreasing risk factors in cardiovascular disease through the use of meditation and specifically, transcendental meditation (Walton, Schneider & Nidich, 2004;Parati & Steptoe, 2004). 

Hypnosis

                Hypnosis is ancient treatment modality dating back to ancient Greece where priests would give advice to persons while they were sleeping (Nash, 2001).  Hypnosis can be defined as a technique in which a trancelike state in which the individual is more responsive to suggestions by another.  There is a change in perception, memory and voluntary control of action (Goldberg et al., 1994).  Research has indicated that brain activity of the hypnotized person is that of a fully awake individual and that there are specific changes in the activation and deactivation of specific brain structures (Feldman, 2004).  Individuals seek assistance from a hypnotist to manage smoking cessation, weight loss, stress management, insomnia, blood pressure control, and for improving memory. There is board certification for hypnotherapists, which is the preferred word for the neurobiological and sociocognitive perspectives of hypnosis (Friend, 1999, Gruzelier, 2000, Feldman, 2004).    There have been reviews of research conducted with hypnosis (Green & Lynn, 2000) that provide mixed reviews for specific uses such as smoking cessation.  Other uses of hypnosis and existential psychotherapy have been found to be beneficial in the treatment of patients with terminal illnesses and intractable pain.  The study utilized 6 sessions of hypnosis to focus on symptom management.  Benefit from the hypnosis was found to be significant following these sessions (Iglesias, 2004). Chronic substance abusers have also benefited from hypnosis training.  The study by Pekala, Maurer et al. (2004) found that self-hypnosis training and the continued practice of this decreased the relapse of drug usage and improved the participants self-esteem.

Therapeutic Touch

                Therapeutic touch originates from the concept that an energy field extends around the individual (Krieger, 1979).  The focus of the therapeutic touch and energy fields is that a transfer of energy occurs from the person acting as healer to help the person alter the energy pattern to a better state (Krieger, 1979).  This transfer of energy helps correct  imbalances and thus aid healing.  Research has been conducted with therapeutic touch (TT)to include effects on pain, relaxation, decreasing anxiety, and improving rest (Hughes et al., 1996; O’Mathuna, 2004; Heidt, 1990; Gagne & Toye, 1994).   The use of TT has been examined as a method of pain relief, especially with postoperative pain and headaches (O’Mathuna, 2004; Kelly et al., 2004). According to studies, it alters enzymes activities, increased hemoglobin levels and accelerated wound healing. Primarily it is used for pain relief, stress and anxiety reduction (Kelly et al., 2004, Donnelly, 2004).

Light Therapy      

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a depression that occurs during the long winter days when there is decreased sun and light.  Further study into the alternations of mood, indicated that not only was there evidence of depression, there is also lethargy, inability to concentrate and difficulty sleeping which are usually symptoms attributed to depression (Eagles, 2004; Johnson, 2000)  SAD affects approximately 4-6 persons per 100 people and usually female over the age of 20.  Therapy can be from a light box source or from a high-intensity fluorescent lamp that does not emit ultraviolet rays (Keegan, 2001).  The process of exposure to white light has been effective. Szabo et al. (2004) found that light therapy increased static visual contrast sensitivity in patients and may account for a significant effect on seasonal affective disorder.  Sher et al. (2001) also found that after 2 weeks of a 1 hour light therapy, improved atypical depressive symptoms. It was suggested that long-term response to light therapy may be predicted by the early responses (Sher et al., 2001).  

Spiritual Therapies

The National Institutes of Health initiated a five year study in 2000 to determine if prayer intervention would improve the health of clients with cancer.  Since African-American (AA) women are more likely to use spiritual healing than white women, the project has been centered on AA women in the early stages of breast cancer.  Dr. Diane Becker of Johns Hopkins University and Dr. Harold Koenig of Duke University have been the co-investigators on “Centering Prayer”.  With the report from the CDC indicating that prayer is the most commonly used complementary therapy, it is important to determine the clinical and spiritual benefits of this modality (Barnes et al, 2004). 

McCaffrey and colleagues (2004) found that faith is a critical part of health care and that physicians must consider this in their plan of care.  Intercessory prayer (praying for others) has been suggested as an effective adjunct to standard medical care in one study of patients in a coronary care unit (Harris, Gowda, et al., 1999).  The Cochrane Library provided an analysis of the research conducted with intercessory prayer and found that over 1400 subjects have been studied in this process of prayer.  While the review did not find that  physiological outcomes were significantly improved, it was noted that the effects were psychologically beneficial (Roberts, Ahmed & Hall, 2004).

Guided imagery has also been associated with spiritual models. Lewandowski (2004) studied guided imagery as a modality for treating pain .  The author found that guided imagery appeared to have a potential useful effect for chronic pain sufferers.  Others (Antall & Kresevic, 2004) have also used guided imagery to manage pain in elderly following orthopedic surgery with clinically and statistically significant results.  Additionally, Van Kuiken (2004) conducted a meta-analysis to determine the significance of guided imagery from research based studies.  It was found that 10 studies did indicated that guided imagery had a positive effect over the first 5-7 weeks.

ENERGY THERAPIES

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is useful in assisting the individual to take conscious control of autonomic processes.  The electronic equipment used in biofeedback allows for measurement (i.e., muscle tension, brain wave patterns, skin resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure) to provide information to the individual of responses to visualization, muscle stimulation, imagery or relaxation techniques (Keegan, 2001).  In addition to use for training individuals in stress reduction and reduction of blood pressure and pulse, biofeedback has been used in the management of urinary incontinence.  Initially, biofeedback was used for incontinence following prostatectomy (Jackson, Emerson, Johnson, Wilson & Morales, 1996). Additional research has expanded the concept for stress incontinence using vaginal probes to monitor muscle tension and the use of biofeedback as one method that is effective (Davila & Guerette, 2004).

Reiki

                Reiki probably originated about 5000 years ago in Tibet, but the concept and use of Reiki was renewed in the 1800s in Japan (Gallob, 2003).  The word in Japanese means “universal life energy”.  It is based on the concept of unseen energy flows that occur in all living things. Not only it is based on energy flows, it also includes a method of spiritual healing.  Reiki has been used to focus on helping to heal the body, emotions, mind, and spirit.  Light hand placement is used to channel healing energies (Keegan, 2001).

               

NUTRITION AND SUPPLEMENTS

Vitamins, Minerals and Specific Diet Foods

Antioxidants

An on-going study at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is evaluating natural antioxidants in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).   The specific treatments include ginkgo biloba, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin E, selenium and essential fatty acids.   Outcomes of this study will be measured by the effects on the MS lesions as seen by gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00010842, September 2004). 

Basic information has been published by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society on the use of vitamins, minerals and herbs in the treatment of MS.  The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has several brochures on supplements and these can be obtained through the organization.  Additionally, an introduction to vitamins, minerals, and herbs in MS is available on the internet (http://www.nationalmsscoiety.org/Brochures-Vitamins.asp, September 2004). 

                Vitamins have been used for generations to help maintain the body in healthy balance.  With the increased availability of fast foods, today’s generation is more likely  to consume a diet that does not meet all of the vitamin essentials. The NCCAM has multiple clinical trials underway due to clinical documentation of success with certain vitamins and minerals. The entire list can be found under the government section from NIH and changes as trials are started or recruitment of subjects is being sought (see resources at end of chapter).  In 2004, a 5 year study was initiated and recruited over 32,000 participants to study selenium and Vitamin E.  Outcomes will be measured on the  prevention, quality of life, and correlation with reduction of prostate cancer and other disease processes such as Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and cardiovascular events) (http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00056392).

                The use of antioxidant vitamins has received wide discussion and research evaluation in recent years.  A nationwide clinical trial, supported by the National Eye Institute of NIH, and reported in the Archives of Ophthalmology in 2001, indicated that persons at high risk for age-related macular degeneration could decrease this risk by 25% with high-dose combination of vitamin C, vitamin, E., beta-carotene, and zinc.  These same nutrients had no effect on the development or progression of cataracts according to the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS, 2001).

                There has been research conducted with Vitamin E and its relationship with Alzheimer’s disease. Additional research may expands the use of Vitamin E, as the current NCCAM research indicates the initiation of new studies.  A 2004 study is evaluating the results of this vitamin in aging persons with Downs’ syndrome.  It has been hypothesized that Vitamin E can improve quality of life in persons with Downs’ syndrome (http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00056329, September 2004).  Other research sponsored by NCCAM is examining the effect of high does Vitamin E on carotid artherosclerosis (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00010699, September 2004).

                Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) has been researched demonstrating a significant but low efficacy as a preventative treatment for migraine headaches.  Research has complained the efficacy of riboflavin to that of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), calcium channel antagonists, gabapentin and topiramate (Silberstein & Goadsby, 2002).   Use of riboflavin was suggested for prevention of headaches, however, it was noted that significant research was lacking using controlled studies to provide this as evidenced based practice.  Mauskop (2001) indicated that while the quantitative research has not been done, there are case studies and smaller numbers of clinical evicence that does provide the clinical support for the use of 200 mg riboflavin two times a day.

Other Supplements

Glucosamine and Chrondroitin

                Conflicting research results have led to the NCCAM to support a study that evaluates the use of the dietary supplements, glucosamine, chrondroitin, and a combination of glucosamine and chrondroitin as compared with Celecoxib and a placebo.  Results will examine outcomes of persons with osteoarthritis and evaluate the reduction of pain and improvement in movement.  This study has been concluded and data analyzed with results of the report due for publication in the near future.  However, an issue that has arisen about this study is that it was only 6 months in length and cannot speak to long term benefits.(http://nccam.nih.gov/news/19972000/121100/qa.htm, September 2004). 

Diets, Food Sources and Herbals

“We are what we eat” is a commonly accepted phrase regarding choosing diets and food sources.  This chapter will not include all of the diets as many books are written on specific diets; however, diets cannot be overlooked in the concept of alternative and complementary therapies as they are integrated with traditional medicine.  What do we want to say about diets in general? 

In addition to specific diets, there are various food sources that have been researched to find either positive or negative aspects on disease processes or interaction with treatment modalities.  Cranberry juice is one example of a supplement that has been reviewed in the literature and studied for its physiological effect on urinary track infections.  Originally, it was hypothesized that cranberry juice changed the pH of urine.  Instead, it was found that cranberry juice actually decreased the adherence of bacteria to cells thus helping with prevention of UTIs  (Raz, Chazan & Dan, 2004). Grapefruit juice is an example of a food source that may have a negative effect especially with certain medications (Lilley, 1998; Blumenthal, 1998).

                Several remedies have been suggested by urologists for treatment of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland.  The most popular is saw palmetto berry (Serenoa repens).  It does not reduce the size of the prostate gland, but it helps in managing symptoms (Blumenthal, 2000).  Research has been mixed on the results of the use of Saw Palmetto, and it is speculated that this may be due to amount of herbal, the lack of controls or the length of the study (Braeckman, 1994; Strauch, et al., 1994).  Review in Clinical Evidence Concise (2003) found that saw palmetto improves symptoms compared with a placebo, but there was no difference in symptoms scores between saw palmetto and finasteride.

                Much has been discussed regarding other herbals in the management of chronic conditions, and health care professionals need a reliable source for herbals.  Examples of clinical indications of success with herbals that has not been documented with significant research includes feverfew for migraines, chitosan for weight loss,  evening primrose oil for premenstrual syndrome and for schizophrenia, Ginkgo biloba for intermittent claudication, melatonin for jet lag  and peppermint for irritable bowel syndrome, just to name a few (Goldberg et al., 1994).  In the true spirit of alternative medicine, Thomas Edison is quoted by naturopathic providers “ The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease”(Goldberg et al., 1994).

 

MOVEMENT THERAPIES

Kinesiology

                Kinesiology is the study of muscles and their movements.  With this information, practitioners analyze muscle function, posture, gait, and other movement activities that  may affect health (Keegan, 2001).  Currently, the research related to applied kinesiology is still in its infancy (Gin & Green, 1997).  There have been numerous articles about kinesiology published, but results are not conclusive at this point since there has been limited replication of studies (Schmitt & Leisman, 1998; Monti et al., 1999).  Applied kinesiology uses acupressure to “reflex points” at specific muscles (Keegan, 2001).

Tai Chi

                While Tai Chi is considered a mind/ body therapy due to the concentration and the focusing required as an individual, it, in fact, can likewise belong to movement therapies.  As with mind/body therapies, movement therapies deal with increasing mental awareness of the body in order to improve posture and enhance muscle groups (Keegan, 2001).   Tai Chi is a therapy with extensive flowing moves  with graceful movements for health and meditation as well as self-defense ( Keegan, 2001). History of this Chinese therapy dates back to 3000 BC and has been noted in cave paintings. Tai Chi (big, energy) is exactly that of generating and feeling energy through movement.  This form of exercise has been documented to be beneficial in helping the elderly with balance and movement (Wolf, et al., 1993; Wolfson et al., 1993).  In addition to improvement in balance, results from a randomized trial found that Tai Chi had a positive effect on blood pressure in older adults (Young, et al., 1999).  Lan et al. (1999) likewise found the positive benefits of Tai Chi on cardiorespiratory function of adultsfollowing coronary artery bypass surgery. 

Qigong

                Qigong has it historical roots in China. (Kemp, 2004).  The intent is to balance the flow of vital energy (chi) along the acupuncture meridians or energy pathways.  Qigong has been used for over 7000 years (Kemp, 2004).  The primary focus of Qigong is “to reduce stress, improve blood circulation, enhance immune function and treat a variety of health conditions” (Keegan   2001, p 199). Qigong is different from Tai Chi in that it includes the breathing and relaxation exercises, meditation and massage along with other natural methods (Keegan, 2001). To get the maximum benefits, one should enroll in a program and continue this on a consistent basis as it may take months to obtain desired benefits.

OUTCOMES

                By developing increased awareness of alternative and complementary therapies, clinicians can work together to provide an integrative approach to health care.  Cassileth (1999; Cassileth & Deng, 2004) recognized the positives and negatives of complementary and alternative therapies being used in cancer patients. Without a clear understanding of both traditional, western medicine and various CAM therapies, a person may select one or the other without recognizing the value (either positive or negative) of each.  Some have delayed traditional cancer therapy in favor of alternatives and others have chosen not to use researched methods (i.e., diet therapy, meditation, biofeedback, yoga) to improve quality of life during cancer treatment (Cassileth, 1999; Cassileth & Deng, 2004).  It is anticipated with additional research studies sponsored by NIH, more alternative and complementary therapies will become a part of integrative health care.  This would be the desired outcome of combining therapies to treat the “whole” person in holistic care.  It is all health care providers responsibility to assess and understand alternative and complementary therapies used by clients/patients in order to anticipate interactions with traditional medicine and to support those therapies that are documented to be of benefit. A problem is that it is very difficult to track outcomes, especially when alternative therapies are being used with traditional, western therapies (Lewis, deVedia, et al., 2003). An outcome of this chapter is to provide resources to health care providers to expand knowledge of alternative and complementary therapies as they are used in integrative medicine. 

SUMMARY and CONCLUSIONS

                This chapter is not all inclusive of complementary and integrative therapies.  It is meant to stimulate interest in further exploration of the kinds of therapies that people use and the need for obtaining resources and research that provides current and reliable information.  An excellent start is through the National Institutes of Health for Complementary and Alternative Therapies (NCCAM) and the Office of Dietary Supplements. 

Not only does the NIH website provide information about research studies, there is also specific information that is researched based provided through the Office of Dietary Supplements of NIH.  An example of this is the information related to Vitamin A and Carotenoids which includes information related to recommended dietary allowances, food sources, current research information available on the deficiency of Vitamin A and the possible negatives from excessive amounts.  It must be remembered that not all “natural” products are safe.  With current research, we not know that ephedra can cause detrimental effects on blood pressure, arrhythmias, and even sudden death, therefore, obtaining this over the counter has been banned (http://www.consumerlab.com/). This should be included earlier when you are talking about risks, benefits, etc. 


 

Study Questions

 

1.                    How do complementary and alternative therapies differ from traditional western medicine?

2.                    Why do most people seek complementary therapies?

3.                    Are complementary therapies less expensive than traditional medicine?

4.                    How does the nurse respond to patients describing the use of alternative therapies?

5.                    What are the benefits to incorporating complementary therapies with traditional medicine?

6.                    Can allopathic providers utilize alternative therapies in their practices?

7.                    What are 2 governmental sources for reviewing pertinent data and information on CAM therapies?

8.                    Describe two movement therapies.

9.                    Do insurance companies recognize CAM as legitimate alternatives or complements to allopathic treatment?  Do they reimburse for these CAM treatments?

 


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