Bowen was extremely busy in his clinic, as was verified by the 1975 Victorian government inquiry into alternative health care professionals. The study documented Bowen seeing some 13,000 patients per year as assessed over a 27-week period. Considering treatments were seven days apart and most people needed only two or three treatments, that was an amazing number of clients per year.
In 1974, while attending a National Health Conference in Adelaide, Australia, he was introduced to massage therapist Oswald Rentsch. Although Rentsch knew nothing of Bowen's work, he spontaneously asked if he could train with Bowen. Bowen subsequently invited Rentsch to Geelong to study with him and over the next two and a half years he studied Bowen's technique, watching and learning from him.
Ultimately, Bowen authorized Oswald and Elaine Rentsch to document his work, as he had no notes, charts or manual the Rentschs could copy. With the help of Bowen's receptionist, Rene Horwood, they produced a true representation of Bowen s original technique.
The Rentschs began utilizing Bowen's methods in their own clinic in Hamilton, Victoria, Australia. At his request, it was not until Bowen's death that the Rentschs began teaching his technique.
The first seminar was held in Perth, Australia, in 1986, and by 1990, the Rentschs were teaching full time. Since that time, they have introduced the Bowen Technique throughout Australia, New Zealand, North America and the United Kingdom, and practitioners use this amazing healing modality world wide.
Because this technique is so effective, it has been widely embraced by a broad spectrum of people. Healing professionals have been impressed by the capabilities of a Bowen treatment and the diversity of problems addressed. It has been so successful that in 1994, the Rentschs implemented a Teacher Training Program, with seminars being held regularly.
Global use – certified practitioners are using the Bowen Technique in Australia, North America, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Europe.
How it is used – the practitioner uses his/her uses thumbs and index fingers, making very gentle rolling-type moves over precise points on patient’s body. (In most first sessions points will be used on the back, neck, shoulder, hamstrings and knees.) These gentle moves aim to disturb the muscles, connective tissue and subtle energies within the body creating balance and stimulating energy flow. Then, as a standard and important part of the Bowen Technique treatment, the practitioner steps back and allows the patient to absorb the work and for the healing to begin. Many people feel sensations of heat, tingling, movement, floating or muscle release during a session. A deep state of relaxation is usually experienced
The work is very subtle, relaxing and gentle involving no hard or prolonged pressure. During a 45-60 minutes session the patient will lie on a therapy table or bed.
Where you can have Bowen Technique - BOWTECH.com hold a world wide register of Bowen practitioners. All practitioners on this register have been accredited by the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia, hold full insurance and have training in Anatomy & Physiology.
For practitioner referral details in your area visit by clicking the button above. You will be directed to the Bowtech site where you can search your country of residence to find a Practitioner NEAR YOU!
http://www.bowtech.com/public/practitioner/search.results.do
Cost – about £30 per treatment, depends on location and practitioners.
- Hypnotherapy
Historical and Development - From Ancient Practice to Modern Therapeutic
Hypnotherapy has been developed from ancient practice to modern therapeutic today. Hypnosis was used before the recording of history. People in Africa, India, Australia and Egypt used rhythmic chanting, strained fixation and monotonous drums to enter a trance state during their religious or healing ceremonies. The name hypnosis was given by a Scottish surgeon called James Braid (1775 – 1860) took the Greek word “hypno” meaning to sleep.
The advance in hypnosis has taken 300 years from Dr.Franz Anton to the present day. During the world war 2, hypnosis was used by psychiatrists and physicians to treat problems such as stress and battle fatigue. Milton H. Erickson (1901-1980), a psychotherapist whose outstanding performance in hypnosis has shaped hypnotherapy into what it is today.
Global use -
How it is used – relaxation
A Hypnotherapist will attempt to find out as much about the client and their problem as possible during the first visit to try and establish the relevant psychological factors and the appropriate mode of treatment. In hypnotherapy you will be relaxed in a comfortable chair or couch and by talking in a firm but monotonous voice, the therapist will put you into a hypnotic state - neither asleep nor awake. You will be asked to relax your body by breathing deeply and slowly. The therapist will then try to extract information from your subconscious mind in order to find the cause of your problem, possibly by taking you back to your childhood for your earliest memories. Suggestions may be made to your subconscious which will be related to your problem. At the end of the session you will be brought out of the hypnotic state feeling calm, relaxed and re-energised.
Where you can have hypnotherapy -
http://www.general-hypnotherapy-register.com/
Cost – FREE initial consultation
For all other emotional problems including anxieties, fears and phobias.
£40 per session - up to an hour and a half.
- Counselling
Historical Development -
History of Counselling
The history of counselling has its roots in clinical psychology of the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. But it also has roots that can be traced back long before that time.
Before the industrial revolution, few people were expected to move far from their place of birth. Members of their extended families would have provided the sense of safety and support that the modern counsellor now does. Priests, rectors, rabbis, church elders, shamans and wise women would have been able to offer this guidance outside of the family. But as the nature of family life changed and fewer people choose to look for guidance from traditional religious leaders, the need for secular guidance grew.
In the early part of the 20th century, there were many people working to develop theories of psychology that would be the basis for psychotherapy and counselling practice as it continued to evolve. Three of the most important figures in the early days were Jung with his analytical psychology, Freud with his psychoanalysis and Assagioli with his psychosynthesis. Although the latter was not so well known or accepted until the 1950s, his theories offer several important elements for us today.
In the1940s and 50s, there was a wave of expansion in the field of counselling. One of the most famous voices was that of Carl R. Rogers whose person centred approach to counselling is at the heart of most current practice. The counselling community continued to blossom, with ever more theories for understanding ourselves and improving our lives. In the 1970s and 80s this evolved many techniques of self help proposed by psychologists, counsellors, trainers, and holistic therapists.
And, in those hectic years, the practice of counselling took hold and became more acceptable in our culture. We all need some help, support and guidance in this marvellous and demanding world in which we find ourselves. At long last, we are learning that it is possible, and admirable to ask for it.
Counselling and Psychotherapy theories were being developed during the beginning of the 20th century, however it is thought that the roots of this subject originated a long time before this. The most renowned work is that of Sigmund Freud (left) whose research into the human mind began in Vienna in 1881. He received training to become a neurologist and began working with patients who were classed as hysterical. Freud named his method psychoanalysis and continued to practice his theories until the 1930's.
Although Freud is thought of as the oldest psychological theorist, it was Franz Anton Mesmer, an 18th century physician who discovered animal magnetism (also known as mesmerism) and James Braid who developed hypnotherapy using inspiration from Mesmer's ideas. Hypnosis was a technique Freud adopted in his early work to treat mind disorders but then concentrated on developing his own theories after recognising that hypnotherapy was only a useful technique with certain problems. However Freud's work remains the most well known in recent times. Freud proposed the division of the mind into ego, superego and id. He also believed that infants pass through oral, anal and phallic stages and becoming 'stuck' in one of the phases could lead to disastrous consequences.
Carl Jung was a close colleague of Freud, but eventually split from Freud to pursue his own school of analytical psychology. His ideas are also widely recognised in recent times. Alfred Alder, Sandor Ferenczi, Karl Abraham and Otto Rank are other influential theorists who worked closely with Freud. Carl Jung, and other descendants of Freud's approach, focused heavily on psychodynamic theories.
The 1940's and 1950's marked an important expansion in the field of counselling. The US psychologist Carl Rogers (influenced by Alfred Alder and Otto Rank) established the person centred approach, which is at the heart of most current practice. The person centred approach is now listed under the 'humanistic' branch of psychotherapy. There are now thought to be three general types of psychological therapies; and
Global use -
How it is used – discussing
Counselling takes place in a private setting so that you can feel free to share your concerns in confidence. In the initial session, you will be able to talk to the counsellor to clarify the areas that you want to cover together. The counsellor will suggest the number of times you might need to meet to achieve your objectives. Each session is 50 minutes, normally at the same time each week.
Depending on how things work out, you may wish to take short breaks in the process to work on issues that have emerged for you, returning later when you are ready to do more work.
Where you can have counselling - contact the . They will be able to send you a list of approved counsellors in your area.
Cost - £35 per session to make a qualified counsellor available for you. You are asked to pay as much as you can afford; the precise amount would be agreed at the initial assessment session, which is normally offered without charge or commitment on either side.
(M1) The advantages and disadvantages of these therapies in terms of orthodox treatment, where the complementary therapies have work or have caused harm and evidence where showing the treatments have improve conditions.
Homeopathy
Bowen Technique
Hypnotherapy
Counselling
The advantages where orthodox treatments have not work but complementary therapies have
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/talking_point/427843.stm
I am currently under-going chiropractic treatment, mainly for back problems and it is wonderful to have the release. My MD's (more than one) have told me there is nothing they can do. I need to lie on a flat surface and rest! As my wife is Chinese, we also take herbal medicines prescribed by the Chinese physician. They may not smell nice and usually taste pretty awful but the effects are good. Western medicine in general cures the symptoms while Oriental medicine tends to cure the cause. When used together, they compliment each other. They should be called complimentary medicines, not alternative and 'normal.'
John Churchman,
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/talking_point/427843.stm
I had suffered with Irritable Bowel Syndrome for years, and countless visits to the doctor did no good. After reading various books on the subject I decided to try reflexology. I haven't looked back since. I went from having at least three bad days a week to, at the most, one a month. It works for me, and because it improved my quality of life so greatly, I am open to the idea that alternative medicine (I prefer to call it complementary medicine) can work where modern medicine fails. The most important thing to remember is to treat it with respect and see a qualified practitioner, especially one recommended.
Rachael Langfield, UK
One patient who used complementary therapies alongside and said
"I turn up for my appointment and someone injects the drugs into me, or shines radiation beams at me. Although I know all the staff care, I sometimes go away feeling very alone and not in control of my situation. But after a massage I feel less alone and more able to cope with things"
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp?page=18271
The disadvantages where complementary therapies may caused harm
Problems or condions where there is evidence that therapies improve/do not improve conditions
Preliminary research reports that Bowen therapy may improve range of motion in patients with frozen shoulder. Additional studies are needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.
More than 70 per cent of patients who had chronic disease reported positive changes in their health after receiving homeopathy treatment, a six-year study at Bristol Homeopathic Hospital found. http://www.norwichunion.com/health/health-news/news-story.htm?id=1132587400&c=430016190
More than 70 per cent of patients who had chronic disease reported positive changes in their health after receiving homeopathy treatment, a six-year study at Bristol Homeopathic Hospital found.
Respondents with problems including problems related to eczema and the menopause were analysed in the survey of more than 6,500 patients.
Children experienced the most positive results from homeopathy treatment, with 89 per cent of asthma sufferers under the age of 16 reporting improvements in their condition.
Of the whole group, 75 per cent reported that they felt 'better' or 'much better' following treatment.
Some have suggested that this is evidence that homeopathy should be introduced onto the NHS.
But others are more sceptical: 'Patients were simply asked by their homeopathic doctor whether they felt better and it is well known that in this situation many patients will come up with the answer the doctor wants to hear,' said Matthias Egger, professor at the University of Berne, who worked on the study that was published in the Lancet.
Evidence on the use of homeopathyhttp://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default_printer_friend.asp?page=251#evidence
There are over 100 published looking at how well homeopathy works in treating various illnesses and symptoms. None of these trials provide us with any scientific evidence to prove that homeopathy can cure or prevent any type of disease, including cancer. Many individuals say that homeopathy has helped their symptoms. And some small trials have shown that homeopathy can have a positive effect. Two studies suggest that homeopathy may help women with cope with menopause symptoms. But these are small and they don’t provide enough evidence to show if homeopathy really works, or how.
We don’t really know whether the effects of homeopathy truly come from the homeopathic medicine or if they are simply a . In 1997 the medical journal The Lancet published a of placebo of homeopathy in humans. A meta-analysis means taking the results of several trials of a particular treatment, and looking at the results all together. This can give a more accurate picture than looking at each result individually. The researchers looked at 89 trials in all. They concluded that the positive effects of homeopathy could not all be put down to the placebo effect alone.
Another meta-analysis of 110 homeopathy trials, published in 2005, found the evidence supporting homeopathic treatments to be weak. The researchers concluded by saying that the placebo effect was quite likely. So we need more research before we will know if homeopathic medicines really do work.
Homeopaths say that because homeopathy does not work like a conventional drug, it should not be tested as one. We need to find a way of testing that is homeopaths feel comfortable with and is also acceptable to scientists and doctors as evidence.
(P2) Barriers for access to complementary therapies
Financial restriction
Public sector
Private sector culture
Access
Referral
(M2) Factors that may influence access to complementary therapies
lack of financial resources; lack of support from health and social care
Structural barriers
Regulatory and economic barriers
Belief barriers
Power relationship
the lack of scientific proof - alone is perhaps not reason enough to dismiss the possibility that a new treatment might be valuable or effective.
lack of education - related to complementary/alternative therapies in nursing schools.
Ways of obtaining care services and barriers to access
Key issue: How can people gain access to care services and what can prevent people from being able to use services they need? The ways that people gain access to care services are known as methods of referral. You should know about the different methods of referral that exist. These are:
- self-referral: choose to ask for or go to the services by themselves
- professional referral: being put in contact with a service by care practitioner such as a doctor, nurse, or social worker for example.
- third-party referral: being put in contact with a service by a friend, neighbour, relative or another person who is not employed as a care practitioner (for example, own employer or a teacher).
You should also be able to identify barriers that might prevent people from making use of the services that they need including:
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physical barriers: for example, stairs, a lack of lifts and a lack of adapted toilet facilities can prevent access to premises by people with mobility problems.
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psychological barriers: for example, fear of losing independence, the stigma associated with some services and not wanting to be looked after can deter people from making use of care services. Mental health problems can also prevent those in need from accessing services
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financial barriers: for example, charges and fees can deter and exclude people who have not got the money to pay for services they need
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geographical barriers: for example, in rural areas the location of an organisation and practitioner may be a barrier to use if there is also a lack of public transport, or a long bus or car journey is required to get there
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cultural and language barriers: for example, cultural beliefs about who should provide care and how illness and social problems should be dealt with, as well as difficulties in using English, may deter members of some communities from using care services.
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Resource barriers: for example, lack of staff, lack of information about services, lack of money to fund services or a large demand for services can prevent people from gaining access to services when they need or want them
You should be able to identify ways in which services and the individuals they serve might overcome these barriers.
You should also understand that poor integration of services, rationing and the 'postcode lottery' may affect availability of services in your local area.
The lack of scientific data may partly be the result of the medical community's past skepticism of the possible validity of a treatment with which it is unfamiliar. For instance, some alternative clinicians cannot present research data because they have difficulty finding an interested publisher. However, even after having published in peer-reviewed literature, controversial ideas have a difficult time gaining acceptance from the “mainstream” medical community. The lack of scientific evidence may also be due to the small numbers of physicians and scientific researchers willing to take the huge professional risk to his/her career and/or reputation to pursue research in CAM therapies. While this situation is gradually changing because of increased public interest in CAM therapies, clinical trials are time intensive and costly. Because many CAM therapies cannot be patented, there is little financial incentive for pharmaceutical companies to fund research. As a result, anecdotal evidence remains the major source of information.
Other factors make data difficult to gather. For example, many alternative medical clinics are in Mexico and Europe. Collecting follow-up data can be difficult to impossible. For example, patients may complete a therapy but do not maintain contact with the clinic. There are also high costs associated with generating follow-up data. It is apparent that alternative clinics face many hardships in gaining public acceptance, but this does not mean they are beyond inspection. Every alternative medicine clinic and/or health care provider should be questioned thoroughly by the patient before any treatment is agreed upon.
Another problem CAM therapies face is the difficulty in determining what constitutes a positive response to treatment in the eyes of the medical community. The NCCAM believes that CAM therapies need to be investigated using the same scientific methods applied in conventional medicine. The NCCAM encourages "applying at least as rigorous, and in some cases, even more rigorous research methods than the current standard in conventional medicine. This is because research often involves novel concepts and claims, and uses complex systems of practice that need systematic, explicit, and comprehensive knowledge and skills to investigate." Unfortunately, many CAM therapies are very difficult to fit into standard double-blind clinical trials, the gold standard for proof of effectiveness in medical research. For instance, with acupuncture, massage and chiropractic, it is apparent to both patient and physician who is receiving the “real” treatment.
Unfortunately, many responses patients may have to CAM therapies are difficult to measure in scientific units. If the treatment is not shown to be curative or increase life expectancy but does appear to promote and enhance quality of life issues such as increased energy, appetite, sleep and general well-being, how can these be quantified and proven by the scientific method? For a few therapies, most notably psychological treatments such as psychotherapy, imagery and cancer support groups, scientific studies have reported improved quality of life and possible survival advantages for patients using those treatments. The available scientific documentation will most probably promote psychotherapy into mainstream medical practices. If so, its use will become part of the standard treatment protocol for cancer.
- Financial insecurity
- Time pressure
- Lack of appropriate premises
- Unrealistic expectations
- Overwhelming demand
- Inappropriate referrals
- Unresolved differences in perspective between complementary and conventional practitioners
- Real or perceived lack of evidence of effectiveness
- Lack of resources and time for reflection and evaluation
(P3) outline the role of four different complementary therapies in relation to orthodox treatment
Complementary therapies are used alongside . So you can use them while you are having cancer treatment prescribed by your doctor
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Depression = Anti-depressant drugs + Counselling
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cancer = such as having injections +COUNSELLING
Orthodox treatments
Patients often undergo surgery to remove tumours and diseased tissue. Chemotherapy (drug treatment) and radiotherapy (x-ray treatment or other types of radiation) are used to destroy cancer cells, while hormonal therapy may be used to prevent a cancer growing or recurring after treatment. These approaches may be used individually or in combination. Diet and lifestyle advice may also be given.
Homeopathy is one of the most common complementary therapies used by people with cancer. As with most types of complementary therapies, people use it because it makes them feel better or more in control of their situation. Some people choose homeopathy because it offers a completely different type of treatment compared to .
Homeopathy for people with cancer is promoted as a natural way to help you relax and cope with , anxiety, and control other symptoms and side effects such as , and . Homeopaths believe it can treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions.
Although some doctors do provide their patients with emotional and psychological support, many don’t feel comfortable doing this. Or they just don’t have the time. Their main focus is on treating and curing your cancer. Of course, if you have cancer, this is very important. But many people are also worried about how they can cope with their illness and how it will disrupt their everyday life. Because of this many cancer units now have a cancer counsellor or psychotherapist as part of their team.
One patient who used complementary therapies alongside and said
"I turn up for my appointment and someone injects the drugs into me, or shines radiation beams at me. Although I know all the staff care, I sometimes go away feeling very alone and not in control of my situation. But after a massage I feel less alone and more able to cope with things"
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp?page=18271
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Back pain = Anti-inflammatory drugs or painkillers + homeopathy – arnica - taken every 30 minutes for up to six doses and then every four hours, is said to ease swelling and pain.
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Back pain = Anti-inflammatory drugs or painkillers + bowen Technique
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arthritic pain = Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, steroids + homeopathy
many sufferers report that individually tailored homoeopathic remedies can ease pain. One study found such remedies worked better than aspirin in reducing discomfort and pain.
Orthodox treatments
Anti-inflammatory drugs or painkillers may be prescribed, along with physiotherapy
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acne = Orthodox treatments = Skin creams and gels containing benzoyl peroxide are used to unblock the pores, while antibiotics may be prescribed if the pores have become infected. Other creams based on vitamin A may be used to reduce sebum production, but these can cause side effects.
Complementary treatments = homeopathy = is sometimes used for itchy spots, for painful, infected pores and for very sensitive and irritated skin
Interestingly, Bowen can help greatly with recovery from an anaesthetic, healing after birth or any surgical procedure, side-effects of chemotherapy and other medical treatments. Similarly, a Bowen therapist will never change, reduce or recommend that you stop taking medication which has been prescribed for you by your doctor. In fact if you ask him or her about doing so, they will always refer you back to your doctor for advice on this matter.
Using hypnosis is still widely preferred as an alternative to conventional anaesthetics, especially in the dental profession.
In 1970 the British Police tried experimenting with hypnosis for interviewing witnesses to certain crimes. Hypnosis was reported to be particularly effective in helping witnesses and victims recall detailed descriptions of criminals and perpetrators, relate the details of violent attacks and recall the scenarios immediately preceding certain accidents.
(P4 + M3) Describe and explain the role of four different complementary therapies in relation to health and wellbeing.
What are talking treatments?
Talking treatments or psychological therapies involve the person with a mental health problem talking about his or her problems, usually to a trained listener. Talking treatments often take place alongside other treatments, for example medication.
Talking treatments seem to be more effective in treating some mental health problems than others, for example depression, anxiety and stress disorders. They also seem to be most effective when the person doing the talking and the person doing the listening establish a good relationship with each other. If you are the person doing the talking your own attitude is also important. If you are determined to make it work and you are completely honest with yourself the treatment is more likely to work.
Some talking treatments, such as counselling, may be offered through a variety of agencies including GP surgeries. Other talking treatments are usually only offered by appropriate professionals, for example psychodynamic psychotherapy is usually only offered by psychotherapists. Many talking treatments are not currently available via the NHS but an increasing number of practitioners are now offering online services. Some talking treatments, such as re-evaluation counselling, are offered by other people with mental health problems.
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Hair loss = Hypnotherapy + Orthodox treatments
Doctors aim to treat the underlying cause. If a patient has iron deficiency anaemia they'll be given iron tablets. If current medication seems to be causing hair loss, GPs may consider prescribing alternative medication or changing the dosage. In certain cases, they may also suggest minoxidil liquid to encourage hair growth or recommend hair transplants.
Hypnotherapy = may help reduce stress and trauma that have triggered hair loss.
Hypnotherapy is used to tackle addictions and a range of physical and emotional problems. You're guided into a deep but still conscious state of relaxation, in which the mind becomes more open to suggestion and memories may be clearer.
- Homeopathy has been shown to help people with severe mental health problems to recover, if used over long periods and if used alongside conventional antipsychotic medication.
Introduction
Complementary therapies are non-conventional health treatments that are used in addition to conventional medical treatments (such as drugs and surgery). They are often based on ancient systems that use a holistic approach. Examples include acupuncture, the Alexander technique, aromatherapy, ayurveda, art therapy, chiropractic, conductive education, herbal medicine, homeopathy, music therapy, osteopathy, reflexology, tai chi and yoga.
The division between orthodox medicine and complementary therapies has become blurred in recent years, especially as some complementary therapies now have well established uses in mainstream medicine - acupuncture in childbirth; various therapies for pain relief; and creative therapies in psychiatry. As a result, the term 'integrated medicine' isnow sometimes used, meaning that 'all therapies, conventional and complementary, are part of the one process'. One should bear in mind, however, that this only applies to treatments that have been properly tested and can be shown to do more good than harm.
In general, doctors are more open to the idea of complementary medicine than they used to be, but many still have reservations because few complementary therapies have been the subject of scientific research. The need for solid evidence about the effects of complementary therapies is important because so much information on complementary therapies is available these days, especially on the internet, and so many claims are made for their benefits. Unfortunately much of this is unsubstantiated or questionable, as a 2004 study by Ernst and Schmidt (1) demonstrated. They analysed 32 of the most popular websites giving advice and information on a range of complementary therapies for cancer and concluded that a significant proportion of the sites were a risk to people with cancer. One hundred and eighteen different cancer 'cures' of a complementary therapy nature were recommended on these. None of these could be demonstrated to cure cancer and some of the advice offered was judged to be potentially harmful advice. Only two websites were thought to provide excellent information on complementary therapy research - Bandolier (2) and Quackwatch (3).
Parkinson's Disease and Complementary Therapies
The role of the Parkinson's Disease Society
The PDS has recognised the great interest that people with Parkinson's have in complementary medicine. In the 1990s, the PDS Complementary Therapy Working Party surveyed PDS members about their experiences of complementary therapies (4).
Over 2,000 responses were received. Thirty-five percent of the responders were currently trying (or had previously tried) one or more complementary therapies for problems relating to their Parkinson's. A further 30% were interested, but had not yet tried any. Eleven therapies had been tried by over 50 individuals. People with little or no disability most commonly used active therapies such as yoga and relaxation/meditation and those with severe symptoms were more likely to use passive therapies such as aromatherapy and healing. Yoga, conductive education, shiatsu and other forms of massage scored most highly in terms of perceived benefit. However many participants reported receiving no benefit from the therapies they tried. Across all complementary therapies, the most commonly reported benefits were mental and physical relaxation, relief of stiffness, rigidity, pain and stress.
The Complementary Therapy Working Party subsequently produced Guidelines for evaluating the efficacy of complementary therapies for the management of Parkinson's and related disorders, with a view to encouraging more research in this area (5). As a result, some complementary therapy projects have been funded as part of the PDS research programme.
General studies on Parkinson's and complementary therapies
A part PDS funded 2001 study by Jacqueline Low, of De Montfort University, Leicester, looked at the perceptions of people with Parkinson's of complementary therapies and how these might help them (6). She found that people expected complementary therapies to be helpful to them in coping with Parkinson's for three reasons:
- because of testimonials from other people
- because of previous, positive experiences of complementary therapies
- because a complementary therapy was consistent with their traditional healing beliefs.
Many also believed that complementary therapies were helpful because they were on-going treatments and also because they believed in the complementary therapy and the skill of the practitioners. Those interviewed reported finding aromatherapy and massage the two most helpful complementary therapies.
Participants also felt that the assessing of the efficacy of complementary therapies should be a matter of personal experience and carried out on an individual basis. However, they also wanted more research to be done into evaluating complementary therapies using traditional scientific means. The study also revealed barriers to accessing complementary therapies, including lack of financial resources; lack of support from health and social care professionals; geographic barriers; and lack of knowledge about complementary therapies, and what is available.
An American study (7) by Rajendran et alin 2001 showed that the use of complementary therapies was common in people with Parkinson's. Those who were younger and had a younger age of onset were more likely to use complementary therapies. There was no association between the use of complementary therapies and severity of Parkinson's. Massage, acupuncture, vitamins and herbs were most commonly used.
A 2002 UK study (8) by Ferry et al based on a care of the elderly unit in Birmingham found that the use of complementary therapies for Parkinson's in their clinic was similar to that found in the United States. Non-pharmacological complementary therapies were mainly used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's - aromatherapy and massage were the most popular techniques.
Complementary therapies are not designed to replace any conventional treatment that you are offered.
Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine. An example of a complementary therapy is using to help lessen a patient's discomfort following surgery.
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Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example of an alternative therapy is using a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor.
(P5) Identif current regulation systems for complementary therapies
General Statutory Regulation of Complementary Alternative Medicine
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
The Food Safety Act 1990
The provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968
the Consumer Protection Act 1987
The London Local Authorities Act 1991
Code of ethics and practice
Self-regulation enforcement
Effectiveness: minimising risk, benefits developing public understanding
Training and qualification of practitioners
(D1) Evalute the evidence relating to the use of complementary therapies in contemporary society
What alternative treatments have you tried?
Do you think alternative medicine can be trusted?
use a suitable sample
give reasons for the sample
use a range of information sources
present the information gathered using tables or graphs
analyse the results
compare similarities and differences between members of the public and health care professional
analyse different views between members of the public
compare the views of different health care professionals
analyse how valid, reliable or biased the research is
(D2) Evaluate the effectiveness of regulatory systems in relation to both practitioners and patient/ service users.
http://bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/322/7279/158?ck=nck
Complementary and alternative therapies have become more widely used over the past two decades, but many practitioners in the United Kingdom are largely unregulated. One of the recommendations of last year's report on complementary and alternative medicine by the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology was that "in order to protect the public, professions with more than one regulatory body make a concerted effort to bring their various bodies together and to develop a clear professional structure." That some health professions remain unregulated in a developed country seems extraordinary, and I shall review how this situation has arisen before considering the prospects for change.
Current research on the use of complementary therapies for treating mental health problems
- Homeopathy has been shown to help people with severe mental health problems to recover, if used over long periods and if used alongside conventional antipsychotic medication.
- Transcendental Meditation, hypnotherapy, yoga, exercise, relaxation, massage and aromatherapy have all been shown to have some effect in reducing stress, tension and anxiety and in alleviating mental distress.
- The lack of resources in the NHS
- The absence of adequate research evidence for their efficacy undoubtedly restrict the use of complementary therapies.
- There are also concerns about the regulation, training and registration of practitioners, although moves are being made so set standards for training and practice.
- Finally, political opposition to complementary therapies from healthcare professionals continues to flourish, despite the growing body of evidence in their favour.
Integrating complementary medicine into conventional settings
Successful integration is more likely with
- Demand from patients
- Commitment from high level staff in the conventional organisation
- Protected time for education and communication
- Ongoing evaluation of service (may help to defend service in the face of financial threat)
- Links with other conventional establishments integrating complementary medicine
- Realism and good will from all parties
- Jointly agreed guidelines or protocols between complementary and conventional practitioners
- Support from senior management or health authority
- Careful selection and supervision of complementary practitioners
- Funding from charitable or voluntary sector
Problems are likely with
- Financial insecurity
- Time pressure
- Lack of appropriate premises
- Unrealistic expectations
- Overwhelming demand
- Inappropriate referrals
- Unresolved differences in perspective between complementary and conventional practitioners
- Real or perceived lack of evidence of effectiveness
- Lack of resources and time for reflection and evaluation
How does “western medicine” differ from “complementary therapies”?
Western medicine tends to focus on the external factors that cause the symptoms of the disease,
while complementary therapies focus on the balance of the body’s internal energies.
Western medicine focuses on treating the diseases, while complementary therapies focus on
restoring balance between the physical, mental, social, spiritual well being of the person.
In western medicine, drugs and other forms of treatment are tested in clinical trials before
approved for use. Many of the complementary therapy practices are not clinically tested, but
are learned from centuries of practice experience.
Appendix 1 (General Statutory Regulation of Complementary Alternative Medicine)
Source: http://www.i-c-m.org.uk/forms/BRCP%20Code%20of%20Ethics.pdf
- The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and its associated Regulations place a statutory duty on employers and the self-employed to ensure the health and safety of people affected by various activities undertaken on their premises;
- The Food Safety Act 1990 controls the sale and supply of non-medical products for human onsumption, which includes some products associated with CAM;
- The provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and the Consumer Protection Act 1987 are enforced by local authority Trading Standards Officers, and apply to professions which make claims for the goods or services they sell, including complementary therapists;
- There is legislation relating to specific illnesses and medical conditions — for example, cancer and venereal disease — which prohibits non-medically qualified individuals from purporting to cure, or in some cases treat, them;
- Many organisations which represent complementary therapists are registered charities or limited companies (or both) under the Charities and Companies Acts, and are subject to the provisions of those Acts;
- The London Local Authorities Act 1991 requires the licensing of premises used for activities which include acupuncture, massage, and other special treatments;
- Under common law all practitioners have a duty of care towards their patients;
- In the private sector there is a contractual relationship between therapist and client, which is legally enforceable.
Source: Department of Health (P 104).
Appendix 2 (codes of ethics and codes of practice)
Source: http://www.i-c-m.org.uk/forms/BRCP%20Code%20of%20Ethics.pdf
BRITISH REGISTER OF COMPLEMENTARY PRACTITIONERS CODE OF ETHICS
AND PRACTICE FOR MEMBERS
PRINCIPLES OF PRACTICE FOR THOSE REGISTERED WITH THE
BRITISH REGISTER OF COMPLEMENTARY PRACTITIONERS
The unified profession of Complementary Medicine offers treatments bringing into play the vital force and
spiritual energy, in addition to other physical, mental and emotional techniques. This can lead to a patient
visiting more than one practitioner or receiving more than one discipline in the course of a treatment
programme and the following guidelines are written with that in mind.
Patients and their families must feel they can trust practitioners of Complementary Medicine. To maintain
that trust practitioners have a duty to respect all human and animal life and place the wellbeing of the
patient as their first priority.
This Code provides a framework within which practitioners of Complementary Medicine are expected to
work whilst allowing the public to see the criteria used to protect their interests.
The Complementary practitioner must:
• Respect the patient’s individuality and beliefs
• Treat every patient with care and consideration
• Explain treatments in a way that a patient can understand and listen to the patient's views
• Respect the patient’s rights to be involved in their treatment
• Respect confidential information
• Ensure that the practitioner's own beliefs do not prejudice the needs of the patient
• Recognise the limits of their professional competence and refer on when appropriate
• Work with colleagues in ways that best serve the patient’s interests
• Avoid any act or situation that could compromise the dignity or privacy of the patient
• Respect a patient’s right to request a second opinion
• Be trustworthy in contacts with other health professionals
• Strive to represent the profession with honesty and integrity
• Be prepared to explain the chosen course of treatment to patients and colleagues
• Be aware of new developments and skills
• Be fully insured to protect both themselves and the patient
• Work within the ethical criteria and ethos of the profession
1. ENTRY TO THE BRITISH REGISTER OF COMPLEMENTARY PRACTITIONERS
1.1. The British Register of Complementary Practitioners is a listing of professional practitioners
offering treatment using specific skills. The range and application of these skills varies from
complex structural manipulation (Osteopathy) to Eastern/ Chinese Medicine, soft tissue work,
mental and emotional treatments, vital energy level assessment and diagnostic techniques of
various types.
1.2. The standards, range of competences and appropriate supporting knowledge for each
discipline/therapy/technique are stipulated by the Registration Panels of each Division of the
British Register.
1.3. Each Division of the British Register is autonomous and able to recommend variations and
additions to this Code from time to time.
1.4. If assessment is necessary practitioners will be required to make a diagnosis within the terms of
their own discipline, determine a programme of treatment where appropriate and/or refer a
patient on to another health professional.
Appendix 3 (Self-regulation enforcement)
Source: http://www.parliament.the-stationery-office.co.uk/pa/ld199900/ldselect/ldsctech/123/12308.htm#a31
Features of an Effective Voluntary Self-Regulatory Body
An effective voluntary self-regulating professional body:
— maintains a register of individual members or member organisations;
— sets educational standards and runs an accreditation system for training establishments;
— maintains professional competence among its members with an adequate programme of Continuing Professional Development;
— provides codes of conduct, ethics and practice;
— has in place a complaints mechanism for members of the public;
— has in place a disciplinary procedure that is accessible to the public;
— requires members to have adequate professional indemnity insurance;
— has the capacity to represent the whole profession;
— includes external representation on executive councils to represent patients or clients and the wider public interest.
Source: Budd, S. & Mills, S. (2000) (Op.cit.).
Appendix 4 ( 5 Homeopathic Hospital in the UK)
Sources: http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp?page=251#sfx
Royal London Homeopathic Hospital
Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3HR
Phone: 0207 837 8833
Website:
This hospital can provide complementary therapies on the NHS as well as privately. They run a care programme for people with cancer. They can provide homeopathy, acupuncture, osteopathy, stress management and many complementary therapies such as massage, and reflexology. You can ask your GP or consultant to refer you.
Bristol Homeopathic Hospital
Cotham Hill
Cotham
Bristol
BS6 6JU
Phone: 01272 731231
This hospital offers homeopathy and complementary therapies on the NHS only. There are also 3 clinics run in Bath. You can ask your GP or consultant to refer you for treatment.
Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital
1053 Great Western Road
Glasgow
G12 OXQ
Phone: 0141 211 1600
This hospital runs a specialist Cancer Care Clinic offering homeopathy on the NHS. People with cancer usually get an appointment within weeks of referral. You can ask your GP or consultant to refer you.
Tunbridge Wells Homeopathic Hospital
Church Road
Tunbridge Wells
Kent
TN1 1JU
Phone: 01892 632801
This hospital offers homeopathy on the NHS. There is no specialist cancer clinic, but the hospital regularly sees people with cancer. You must be referred by your GP or consultant.
Liverpool Homeopathic Hospital
Department of Homeopathic Medicine
Mossley Hill Hospital
Park Avenue
Liverpool
L18 8BU
Phone: 0151 285 3707
Appendix 5 (Homeopathy organisations)
Council of Organisations Registering Homeopaths (CORH)
Phone: 01444 239494
Email:
Website:
CORH is a group of organisations working together to develop
• A single register of homeopaths
• A minimum set of practice and training standards
• A common code of ethics for all homeopaths
• Standards of best practice for homeopathic medicine
Look on their website for a list of the organisations who are members.
British Homeopathic Association (BHA)
Hahnemann House
29 Park Street West
Luton
LU1 3BE
Phone: 0870 444 3950
Website:
This organisation can supply a list of health professionals and hospitals that practice homeopathy, books on homeopathy and a magazine.
The Faculty of Homeopathy
This is the national organisation for statutorily registered homeopaths whose members are also registered healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses and dentists. They ensure the highest standards of homeopathic education, training and practice. You can contact the British Homeopathic Association (as above) to find a homeopath who is a member of the faculty.
Phone: 0870 444 3950
http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/page.cfm?pagecode=PMSTCO
