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Complementary and alternative medicine in rheumatology
1Department of Complementary Medicine, School of Postgraduate Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK.
Bailliere'S Best Practice & Research. Clinical Rheumatology
|November 28, 2000
Summary
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is popular among rheumatology patients. Rigorous research is needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these treatments, including acupuncture, herbal remedies, and spinal manipulation.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
Background:
- CAM is increasingly relevant to rheumatologists.
- Understanding CAM prevalence and definitions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM).
- To evaluate the efficacy of various CAM treatment modalities in rheumatology.
Main Methods:
- Systematic reviews of clinical trials were used.
- Specific CAM therapies reviewed include acupuncture, herbal remedies, fish oil, glucosamine, massage therapy, and spinal manipulation.
- Safety and cost of CAM were also addressed.
Main Results:
- Efficacy of acupuncture for low back pain, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, inflammatory rheumatoid disease, and neck pain was assessed.
- Evidence for herbal remedies, fish oil, and glucosamine was reviewed.
- Massage therapy and spinal manipulation for back pain were discussed.
Conclusions:
- Given the popularity of CAM among rheumatology patients, further rigorous research is essential.
- Evaluating the efficacy and safety of CAM treatments is a priority.