Lay perspectives of complementary medicine.

Whilst a tiny snapshot, it is clear that lay interpretations of complementary medicine vary considerably. You may wish to try this exercise to explore peoples' perceptions of this form of medicine and we would welcome responses to these questions. When practising CM it is easy to assume others share our health care perceptions and this may not always be the case.

The whole person in health care (with approaches from a perspective of mind-body medicine): a personal view.

This paper offers a brief mind-body view of: What the whole person is The four aspects of life: physical, emotional, mental, subtle energy states. The concept that health and wellbeing is analogous to developing musical harmony between the four aspects. Each aspect can be imagined as a musical note.

JAMU: an Indonesian herbal tradition with a long past, a little known present and an uncertain future.

As this editorial comes in the first issue of the last year of a millennium, it may be the time to examine our position in a global context. Our efforts to include complementary therapies in nursing and midwifery in the more privileged and western world often seem to be a frustrating struggle, tolerated and involving a steep learning curve for all those involved. Fifteen years ago, I used to say that in 25 years time, there would be a merging and integration and fuller acceptance of orthodox and complementary medicine.

Shiatsu.

Shiatsu is a deep and effective hands-on treatment for many conditions as well as being very relaxing and providing support for general health and well-being. Through the balancing of the body's energy, better physiological and psychological functioning can occur. Recommendations for diet and lifestyle based on traditional Chinese medicine theory can also be offered, according to individual need.

Complementary therapies and their role in nursing care.

This article aims to develop the nurse's knowledge of the range of complementary therapies available and how they can benefit patients. It relates to UKCC Professional Development categories Care enhancement and Patient, family, client and colleague support.

Common misunderstandings about complementary therapies for patients with cancer.

Common misunderstandings exist surrounding the use of complementary therapies for patients with cancer. These problems and misunderstandings may prevent some patients from receiving these potentially beneficial treatments which may enhance quality of life, offer symptomatic relief and self help. Many of these misunderstandings are based on heresay and lack of awareness concerning the role that these therapies may play in complementary cancer care.

Assessing needs of people with cancer.

The provision of complementary cancer care is a developing field. Recent surveys into the provision of complementary therapies have targeted not only the consumer but also the purchasers and providers of health care. There is interest amongst health authorities regarding the provision of complementary medicine as a cost effective intervention in the management of chronic conditions.

Complementary therapies in cancer care: an NHS approach.

Complementary therapies are increasingly being used worldwide as a method of supporting people living with cancer. They offer improved quality of life, symptomatic control and self-help. There are established centres for complementary therapies in the UK; one such establishment is the Royal London Homoeopathic Hospital NHS Trust.

Surveys in complementary therapies: assessing the needs of people with cancer.

The provision of complementary cancer care is a developing field. Recent surveys into the provision of complementary therapies have targeted not only the consumer but also the purchasers and providers of health care. There is interest amongst health authorities regarding the provision of complementary medicine as a cost effective intervention in the management of chronic conditions.

Non-pharmacological aspects of acute pain management.

In this paper, non-pharmacological aspects of acute pain management were explored. Much of the research to date with regard to pain management, has been done, addressing the needs of chronic rather than acute pain. It is thought that misconceptions are still held by some health care professionals regarding the adequacy of pharmacology to deal totally with the problems of acute pain management, and it is of more importance to concentrate on issues associated with chronic pain.

Role of complementary therapies in HIV/AIDS.

Complementary is a commonly used term to describe therapies that were viewed as alternatives to conventional medicine. This change in thinking is important when considering their use for people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). As orthodox medicine can offer support but not a cure for this condition, people with HIV/AIDS are seeking help from a variety of complementary therapies to enhance wellbeing and quality of life.

The role of shiatsu in palliative care.

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage, working on the meridian system of the body; the energetic pathways along which the acupuncture points are placed. The theory for shiatsu is based in the system of traditional Chinese medicine, understood in China for over 2000 years. Shiatsu can be valuable for reintegrating the body, mind and spirit, helping with the general energy level of the body as well as specific symptoms.

Aromatherapy: the essentials.

The aim of this Learning Unit is to raise your knowledge and professional awareness of the issues involved in the training and practice of aromatherapy and its applicability to nursing practice. This unit is not a substitute for professional training, but it is hoped that from the knowledge gained, more nurses may go on to investigate further and train in aromatherapy and other complementary therapies to enhance patient care.