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Complementary and alternative therapies for rheumatic disease
1Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA.
Hospital Practice (1995)
|May 1, 2001
Summary
Patients with rheumatic diseases increasingly use complementary and alternative therapies. This review examines frequently used options to help physicians guide patient choices on these treatments.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Integrative Medicine
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Growing patient interest in complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) for rheumatic diseases.
- Many CATs lack rigorous scientific validation through controlled trials.
- Need for evidence-based guidance for physicians and patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review frequently used complementary and alternative therapies for rheumatic diseases.
- To provide physicians with information to guide patient decisions.
- To highlight the need for further research into CAT efficacy and safety.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of frequently used complementary and alternative therapies.
- Analysis of existing data on safety and efficacy.
- Synthesis of information relevant to clinical decision-making.
Main Results:
- Identification of commonly used CATs by patients with rheumatic conditions.
- Assessment of the current evidence base for these therapies.
- Summary of known safety profiles and reported efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Physicians require accessible information on CATs to advise patients.
- Further controlled trials are essential to establish the efficacy and safety of popular CATs.
- Informed patient-doctor discussions are crucial for managing rheumatic diseases with CATs.