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Alternative therapies


Alternative therapies are systems of healing that are not regarded as part of standard treatment by the medical profession. Many of these therapies take a holistic approach, meaning that they take into account not only the diagnosed disease, but also the physical, social and mental factors of the patient’s condition. Although well established, the following therapies probably are not covered by provincial/territorial medical plans. It is possible for an alternative therapy to have side effects, or to cause a reaction to anti-HCV medication. To avoid the possibility of harm it is best to first talk to your health care provider, former patients, and qualified practitioners of the alternative therapy.

Therapies that do not use pharmaceuticals

Acupuncture
A traditional Chinese system of healing in which symptoms such as pain are relieved by very tiny metal needles inserted into selected points beneath the skin. Be absolutely sure that the practitioner uses sterilized needles and handles them in a safe way.

Homeopathy
A system of medicine based on the theory that “like cures like.” The patient is treated with extremely small quantities of substances that are themselves capable of producing the symptoms of the disease in question.

Naturopathy
A system of medicine that relies upon the use of strictly “natural” substances for the treatment of disease. Herbs, food grown and prepared without artificial fertilizers and preservatives, clean air and pure water may all be used to rid the body of “unnatural substances” which are seen to be the underlying cause of most illnesses. Traditional Chinese Medicine, which incorporates an herbal approach, is the preferred treatment in the Far East for most medical conditions.

Therapies that use touch

Chiropractic
The treatment of diseases by manipulation, mainly of the vertebrae of the backbone. Chiropractors believe that nearly all disorders are caused by incorrect alignment of bones, with consequent malfunctioning of nerves and muscle throughout the body.

Massage
Manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands. It is used to improve circulation and muscle tone, and to reduce muscular spasm.

Osteopathy
A system of healing based on the assumption that many diseases are associated with disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Diagnosis and treatment includes palpation, manipulation and massage.

Shiatsu
A system of healing that may be described as acupressure massage. Pressure is applied by the hands to selected points on the surface of the skin, which correspond to the acupuncture points beneath the skin.

The Three Rs
Reflexology, Reiki, and Rolfing are from Eastern and Western traditions that involve therapeutic touch.

Therapies that use the mind

Altered States of Consciousness
Clearing the mind of stressful thoughts and daily worries is seen to have healthy benefits. Meditation, primarily a spiritual practice, is also basic to lifestyle choices such as yoga. Techniques such as Guided Imagery and Visualization help patients create a vision of a future without symptoms, or at least an immediate, if temporary, pause from discomfort.

Biofeedback
The patient is immediately given information about what are usually unconscious bodily processes (such as heart rate). Over time the patient learns to control disturbances in bodily regulation (such as hypertension).