Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are terms used to describe therapies that are outside the realm of traditional medicine, like acupuncture, massage or supplements. The term complementary medicine implies the treatments are combined with conventional medicine. When referred to as alternative medicine, the treatments are used instead of traditional medical therapy.

A survey by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found nearly 75 percent of American adults had tried some form of CAM. 38 percent of adults are currently using some form of alternative medicine. Women are more likely than men to use CAM. Some of the most popular CAM therapies include: prayer, natural products, deep breathing, meditation, chiropractic, yoga and massage. The conditions for which CAM therapy is most commonly used are back, neck and joint pain, colds, arthritis, mood disturbances, stomach aches, headaches, pain and insomnia.

Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is a branch of medicine that revolves around the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Naturopathic physicians focus on treating the cause of illness, rather than simply alleviating symptoms. The treatments also use the most natural, least toxic methods possible to prevent illness and promote physical and mental health.

A Naturopathic Physician is a trained health care provider. Students have a bachelor’s degree and four years of master’s education at an accredited naturopathic medical school. After completion of clinic work and practical study, students are awarded the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D.) degree.

Judy Fulop, N.D., M.S., Naturopathic Physician, Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, says the most common reason patients seek help from a Naturopathic Physician is to avoid the side effects of some traditional medical treatments. In some cases, a traditional health care provider may refer the patient to a Naturopathic Physician because standard medicine isn’t helping.

An important focus of Naturopathic medicine is diet. Fulop explains that the body reacts to many foods, causing inflammation that leads to symptoms of fatigue and illness. She may perform tests to determine if a patient has any food intolerances. Sometimes a patient may be asked to change his/her diet for a few weeks to see if symptoms clear. Herbs and supplements may also be recommended. In some cases, Fulop will send her patient back to their traditional health care provider for more appropriate treatments (like getting an antibiotic).

Fulop says Naturopathic medicine should be used in conjunction with standard medicine, not in place of it. She also says patients shouldn’t take herbs or supplements without advice from a medical expert or a thorough understanding what’s in the products. When looking for a Naturopathic Physician, make sure the practitioner has graduated from a school accredited by the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.

For information on naturopathic medicine:
Alternative Medicine Foundation
The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine