The Benefits of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Essay

In today’s world, many people assume that the latest medical technology and treatments are always the best option. However, all over the world, different techniques for curing diseases and aliments are being used. These methods fall under the category of complementary and alternative medicine. According to Sandra Augustyn Lawton in Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Teens, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can be defined as â€Å"a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine† (Lawton, 2007, p.3). Although complementary and alternative medicines are often interpreted as the same thing, complementary methods are used in†¦show more content†¦Herbs and minerals are some of the oldest medical treatments in the world, with some of the earliest remnants dating back to the ice age (â€Å"National Center†, 2011, para.7). By taking vitamins or eating a yogurt fortified with probiotics, a person is using complementary and alternative medicine. Movement therapies use physical motions to connect physical and spiritual health with the body. Some of the most common movement therapies include the Feldenkrais method, Pilates, Alexander technique, and Rolfing Structural Integration (â€Å"National Center†, 2011, para ). The Alexander technique is a method that alters everyday movement habits to improve one’s balance, coordination, and support (â€Å"What is the Alexander†, 2011, para.1). â€Å"Rolfing Structural Integration is a body-based practice that uses deep tissue facial manipulation and movement education. The goal is to encourage health and relieve stress by bringing the body into proper alignment with gravity† (Rolf Institute, 2011, para. ). Pilates is a common exercise system that moves the body in gentle but challenging ways, so as to improve posture, flexibility, and the body’s range of motion (â€Å"Pilates†, 2011, para.1). There are also many diets that are considered to be forms of complementary and alternative medicine. These include vegetarian diets, vegan diets, and macrobiotic diets. These diets have many benefits besides profiting one’sShow MoreRelatedCAM Therapeutic Modalities Essay1346 Words   |  6 PagesSurvey of Alternative Medicine November17, 2014 Kay Ach CAM Therapeutic Modalities In the pursuit of health and well-being, many Americans along with the world, have used Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) over the past decade. 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