Complementary medicine is a nonstandard therapy that some people use in addition to their doctor's standard care. (The word "complementary" means "in addition to.") It includes mind and body practices like acupuncture, natural health products like dietary supplements, and alternative health approaches like traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy.
Complementary medicine includes a wide range of therapies that some people use along with their standard medical care. Here are some common types.
Ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy, and traditional Chinese medicine also have practices that some people use along with their standard medical care. One example is acupuncture, which comes from traditional Chinese medicine.
Many people get help from complementary medicine. Some research suggests that there are benefits of certain therapies. For example, acupuncture may help with pain. Mindfulness meditation can help with sleep problems, and tai chi may help with balance.
Complementary medicine includes health care practices that may be used along with standard medical treatment. People often use complementary practices along with care from their medical doctor to deal with health problems, treat symptoms, or stay healthy. Examples include acupuncture, herbs and supplements, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Some people use complementary therapies along with medical treatment. They may help relieve the symptoms and stress of cancer or the side effects of cancer treatment. Therapies that may be helpful include:
Talk with your doctor about any of these options you would like to try. And let your doctor know if you are already using any complementary therapies. They are not meant to take the place of standard medical treatment. But they may help you feel better and cope better with treatment.
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