Complementary therapies
Complementary therapies are treatments that may be used in
addition to or alongside conventional medicine. There are many
types of complementary therapy techniques, often based on systems
that have been practiced for thousands of years.
One attraction for many people is that complementary therapies in
general, focus on treating the patient as a 'whole person' rather
than treating a particular symptom or symptoms.
Another attraction is that they are often perceived as being
harmless. Some people refer to them as 'alternative' or 'fringe'
therapies/medicine. However, these terms are inaccurate and
misleading as 'complementary' means 'that which fills out or makes
whole'.
Complementary therapies do not replace orthodox medicine and their
correct use should always be in addition to, not instead of, usual
treatments.
For more information, download our booklet Complementary Therapies and
Parkinson's Disease (PDF, 393KB)
This booklet includes information on:
- Acupuncture/acupressure
- Alexander Technique
- Aromatherapy
- Art therapy
- Ayurveda
- Bowen technique
- Breathwork
- Conductive education
- Craniosacral therapy
- Diet
- Feldenkrais method
- Healing
- Herbal medicine
- Homeopathy
- Hydrotherapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Kinesiology
- Magnet therapy
- Massage
- Meditation and visualisation
- Music therapy
- Pilates
- Reflexology
- Reiki
- Shiatsu
- Spinal manipulation
- Tai chi
- Yoga
The Parkinson's Disease Society recommends that people
interested in trying complementary therapies should consult their
doctor to ensure that the therapy is suitable for people with
Parkinson's. This is particularly true of herbal medicines or any
therapy involving the taking of vitamins, as some substances may
interfere with Parkinson's medication.
It is also important to use a qualified complementary therapist.
GP surgeries can often provide lists of local practitioners.
|