Working With Your Doctor and Complementary Medicine

In ever increasing numbers, people want to take charge of their health. This is a smart move for those who have chronic ailments. To be successful, you need support and advice from a health professional.

Yet studies show that two-thirds of those using some form of complementary medicine don't tell their doctors. They give many reasons, but the major one is concern their doctor will disapprove or even stop treating them.

It's true that not all doctors approve of complementary therapies. However, it's in your best interest to keep your doctors informed. Every therapy that's strong enough to help you is also strong enough to hurt you. Your doctor can't give you the best possible professional advice without knowing all of the treatments you are using – whether they are over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen, or herbal remedies, nutritional supplements and exercise programs.

Here are some tips for helping you and your physician work together.

• Always tell your doctor everything you are taking or doing, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, vitamins and special diets or exercises.
• Talk to your doctor before consulting a complementary medicine practitioner. Don't assume your doctor will be negative: Many doctors work with complementary medicine therapists and can steer you to a good practitioner.
• Ask what your doctor knows about this particular remedy – and listen carefully to what your doctor says.
• If your doctor is negative about this therapy, ask for a detailed explanation.
• If your doctor doesn't know about the therapy you wish to try, offer information. See the Resources section in each chapter for where to find more information and studies from medical journals that you can show to your doctor.
• If your doctor approves or doesn't object, ask for a prescription or referral. The therapy may be covered by your health insurance if your doctor prescribes it.
• Expect the same cooperation from the complementary medicine therapist.

For More Information

• If Your Doctor Refuses to Consider Complementary Therapies
• Getting the Most Out of Any Treatment
• A Glossary of Health-Professional Titles

This information was excerpted from The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Alternative Therapies.

• Learn about other books and brochures.
• Return to the Alternatives Section Home Page.