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March 29, 2004

Medicine Seeks Proof Of Alternatives Efficacy

The Age examines the thorny issue of mainstream medicine wanting scientific proof of efficacy of mind-body medicine.

The belief that the mind can affect our physical well-being is nothing new. In the 5th century BC, Hippocrates, considered the father of Western medicine, summed up this philosophy when he said: "The human being can only be understood as a whole."

More doctors are including or prescribing alternative medicine, but the concerns center around regulation.

Exactly what are the qualifications of the person advertising massage therapy and counseling services in the local press? And what if people with serious illnesses are persuaded to forgo conventional treatment in favour of alternatives that are unproven and, some doctors believe, potentially dangerous — there is disquiet about herbal medicine and homeopathy, especially as these can interfere with the effects of chemotherapy.

I view my services as an adjunct to mainstream medicine and I partner with my clients so they have a say in their therapy. If I don't think that massage will be helpful for a specific condition, I let the client know of my doubts and let them decide whether they want to proceed with the therapy. If, after all this, a client decides to use my services, I tell them what to look for regarding qualitative change so they can make an informed decision about whether to continue treatment. Sometimes clients are surprised by the results and come back for other benefits, like improved sleep or feeling better in general.

Even die-hard opponents of the use of therapies — such as meditation and hypnosis — instead of drugs concede that they can help reduce stress and add to a patient's quality of life.

Posted by linda at March 29, 2004 8:14 AM