What are complementary and alternative
therapies?
For those eager to explore other forms of treatment, a
plethora of therapies—collectively known as Complemen-
tary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)—may be considered.
While complementary therapies are designed to be used
in addition to orthodox medicine, alternative therapies
tend to be used instead of conventional treatment.
Here are six of the most widely used complementary
and alternative therapies.Acupuncture
What is it? Acupuncture is a form of Chinese traditional
medicine in which thin needles are inserted into differ-
ent areas of your body. Since the practices and theories
supporting acupuncture are not based on scientific knowl-
edge, most people who employ acupuncture do so as a
complementary rather than alternative treatment.
What happens? An acupuncturist will first examine and
assess your condition. Based on their findings, they would
insert between four to 20 needles into your body for about
30 minutes. During this time, expect to feel relaxed and
possibly sleepy. Although the thought of needles sounds
painful, acupuncture is almost painless, eliciting a slight
tingling sensation at most.
What are the benefits? Several studies have shown acu-
puncture to help with the management of diabetes by
reducing blood sugar levels, lowering insulin resistance
and healing neuropathy.
Is it safe? Acupuncture is considered safe, but it must be
done right for it to be completely risk free. If you receive
acupuncture from a poorly trained practitioner who lacks
the necessary skills and equipment, it can be dangerous, so
always check credentials. In the U.S., acupuncture specialists
are licensed by the National Certification Commission for
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).Hypnosis
What is it? Hypnosis involves putting a person into a deep
state of concentration, where they become suggestible. By
tapping into this suggestibility, therapists can help their
clients overcome bad habits or embark on positive changes.
What happens? During the session, expect to be spoken
to in a soothing manner that encourages you to feel relaxed
and secure. You will remain aware of your surroundings and
your actions, however; therapeutic hypnosis isn’t like you
see in the movies, where you don’t know what you are doing
or saying. You will merely be in such a relaxed state that you
will be able to better access and address the thoughts or feel-
ings that may be preventing you from reaching your goals.
What are the benefits? Some of the lifestyle changes necessary
to manage diabetes can be difficult, but hypnosis could help
motivate you to exercise, adopt healthy eating practices and
stay faithful to your medication regimen. In addition, people
looking for ways to deal with anxiety, stress, insomnia, mood
disorders and even pain have touted the benefits of hypnosis.
Is it safe? Hypnosis does come with some caveats, includ-28 May/June 2019