Taking Care of Your Child by Robert H. Pantell

Author:Robert H. Pantell [Pantell, Robert H.; Fries, James F.; Vickery, Donald M.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780738218366
Publisher: Da Capo Press

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Today’s home remedy or folk medicine may be next year’s scientific breakthrough. Over the years countless medical triumphs, from the development of vaccinations (smallpox) to life-saving cardiac medications (digoxin), began as folk wisdom. Most folk medicines, however, have little therapeutic benefit, although many may provide some comfort or taste good. A few can be harmful.

Complementary medicines are products used in addition to traditional medicine. Alternative medicines are used as substitutes for therapies with proven scientific benefit (for example, acupuncture instead of pain medicine). Integrative medicine combines traditional medical therapies with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies that have been shown scientifically to be safe and effective. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine currently recognizes five categories of therapy: alternative medical systems such as homeopathic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine; mind-body interventions such as prayer or creative outlets such as music; biologically based therapies such as vitamins and herbs; manipulative and body-based therapies such as chiropractic and massage; energy therapies including biofield therapies such as therapeutic touch and bioelectromagnetic-based therapies.

Many families are turning to alternative therapies, particularly those who have children with severe conditions that are not being helped by our current therapies, such as autism. Sorting through the countless alternative remedies available on store shelves or the Internet can be daunting. Scientific interest in alternative remedies has been increasing, and the National Institutes of Health and many universities are conducting research and providing parents with timely information.

If you are considering the use of CAM, you can turn to one of several websites for current information, including the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine of the National Institutes of Health (www.nccam.nih.gov) and sites developed by faculty at the University of California, San Francisco (www.osher.ucsf.edu). You should also discuss potential benefits and harm with your health care provider. Take an active role by providing all pertinent information you may have concerning your child’s condition and the CAM you are considering. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended pediatricians work closely with families in making decisions about CAM. Always tell your physician if you are using CAM.

Remember, time will heal most childhood illnesses, occasionally helped by prescription medications or commercial products that are designed to be safe for children.

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