The term Complementary therapies refers to alternative therapies that can be used to treat certain medical conditions. There are many different types however there is no universally agreed definition.

They should not be used instead of traditional medicine and importantly,  for all medical conditions you should speak to your GP for their professional advice.

Complementary therapies include:

  • Acupressure
  • Bowen and Alexander Technique
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage
  • Reflexology
  • Reiki
  • Colonic Hydrotherapy
  • Naturopathy
  • Aromatherapy
  • Hypnotherapy
  • Homeopathy
  • Indian Head Massage
  • Kinesiology
  • Shiatsu Massage Therapy
  • Swedish Massage

It is important when you consider complementary therapies that you ensure your practitioner is qualified. Some cash plan providers will allow you to claim for alternative therapies of this type.

You can only claim if you are using a practitioner with the correct qualifications.

NICE have recognised some complementary therapies in limited circumstances. For example, The Alexander Technique for Parkinson’s Disease and manual therapy for lower back pain.

Osteopathy and chiropractic treatment are regulated in the same way as conventional practitioners even though they may be classed as a complementary medicine or alternative therapy.

In summary you could use this type of treatment alongside traditional medicine but not instead of it. You should always seek professional medical advice before experimenting with alternative therapies.

Moreover, this is especially important if you have a number of pre-existing conditions. Additionally you must ensure the treatment is appropriate for your condition to avoid any complications.

What is Indian Head Massage?

What is Indian Head Massage?

Indian Head Massage is recognised by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (the largest and leading professional association for therapists in the UK and Ireland), as a natural massage therapy. Practiced in Asia for over 5,000 years, this healing treatment uses techniques to help treat a number of different areas. These include the head, scalp, face, neck, shoulders and upper back. What is Indian Head Massage based on? Indian Head Massage uses the ancient method known as Ayurveda. These are natural therapies that take into account the mind, body and spirit. What to expect during a treatment? Your trained therapist will…

A closer look at Acupressure

A closer look at Acupressure

Acupressure is one of the better known Complimentary medicines and it treats the body as an energy system. By identifying and releasing blocked or congested energy centres known as acupoints, acupressure works to relieve individual symptoms.

Remedial Massage

Remedial Massage

The therapist treating you will then proceed to massage the areas discussed. They will use an oil or cream-based product to provide a free-flowing massage. Towels will also be carefully place to ensure you are covered. This will also keep you warm and comfortable throughout the treatment.

Allergy Testing

Allergy Testing

When it comes to food and drink allergies, you could exclude the foods/drinks which you believe are causing the allergy. Although this doesn’t seem difficult to do, you could avoid foods based on incomplete information about potential food and therefore it is always worth seeking professional advice.

A closer look at the Bowen and Alexander technique

A closer look at the Bowen and Alexander technique

There are a number of complementary therapies available. Here we look at the Bowen and Alexander techniques in more detail. You may not have ever heard about them so this information should provide a brief overview for you. The Bowen Technique The Bowen Association was set up in November 1997 and is the European arm of the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia. They provide BowTech accreditation’s which are a recognised qualification for complementary therapists . If you have a cash plan you may be able to claim your cash back for this complementary therapy . How does Bowen Work? A…

What is Shiatsu Massage Therapy?

What is Shiatsu Massage Therapy?

As shiatsu is a holistic and natural therapy it can benefit most people. Many use it to help relieve everyday stresses, aid sleep and promote relaxation. Shiatsu also supports patients whilst receiving treatment for a range of health issues and to help them maintain their general wellbeing. Even if you are fit and healthy, the therapy can promote overall well-being.

A closer look at Nutritional Therapy

A closer look at Nutritional Therapy

As an example, you could visit a nutritional therapist for help in relation to the treatment of acne because there may be a nutritional deficiency. Just as your acne maybe due to hormone imbalance, your diet may also help you to control the symptoms. For this reason, you may find your consultation especially helpful.

A look at Colonic Hydrotherapy

A look at Colonic Hydrotherapy

Colonic hydrotherapy (sometimes known as colonic irrigation) is a complementary therapy that is not available via the NHS. If you are part of a Cash Plan scheme from Healthshield you will be able to claim cash back for this therapy up to your benefit limit. Before you make a claim, you must ensure you have the Health & Wellbeing benefits included in your plan. ARCH is the Association of Registered Colon Therapists and is the UK’s oldest and largest association for colon therapists. They set high standards within the industry based on Naturopathic National Occupational Standards and Core Elements for…

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