Question

st. andré bessette high school
health 9 - alternative treatments assignment
part a - what are alternative treatments?

1. in your own words, define alternative treatment.
2. how do alternative treatments differ from conventional medicine?

part b - research an alternative treatment
choose one from the list or another approved by your teacher (acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, meditation, aromatherapy, yoga, massage therapy, homeopathy, reflexology).

1. what is the treatment?
2. history and background
3. claimed benefits
4. evidence - what does research say?
5. risks/concerns

part c - personal reflection

1. would you personally try this treatment? why or why not?

Explanation:

Alternative treatments are non - mainstream medical practices. They differ from conventional medicine in their approach, evidence - base, and acceptance. For example, acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into the body at specific points. Its history dates back thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine. It is claimed to relieve pain and treat various conditions. Research has shown some evidence for its effectiveness in pain management, but there are also concerns about improper needle use. Personal decision to try it may depend on individual beliefs, health conditions, and comfort levels.

Answer:

1. Alternative treatment can be defined as a non - conventional medical or health - related practice that is not part of standard Western medical care, often involving natural, holistic, or non - pharmaceutical approaches to promote health and treat illness.
2. Alternative treatments often lack the large - scale, double - blind, placebo - controlled clinical trials that conventional medicine relies on for validation. They may focus more on the whole person and natural remedies, while conventional medicine typically uses drugs, surgeries, and evidence - based protocols developed through extensive research.

For Part B (taking Acupuncture as an example):

1. Acupuncture is a practice in traditional Chinese medicine where thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow (Qi) and promote healing.
2. It has a history of over 2000 years in China and has been gradually adopted in Western countries. It was originally based on the concept of meridians and the balance of Yin and Yang.
3. Claimed benefits include pain relief (such as back pain, headache), stress reduction, and treatment of some digestive and respiratory problems.
4. Research has shown some evidence for its effectiveness in pain management, like for chronic low - back pain. However, some studies suggest that the placebo effect may play a role.
5. Risks include infection if needles are not properly sterilized, bruising, and in rare cases, organ puncture.

For Part C:

1. Personal answer may vary. For example, one might say "I would consider trying acupuncture. I am interested in holistic approaches and have heard positive things about its pain - relieving effects. However, I would make sure to find a qualified and licensed acupuncturist to minimize risks."