Complementary Health: Understanding its Growing Influence in Healthcare
Posted on 26th April 2025 at 19:13
In recent years, more and more people have started exploring different ways to look after their health. Instead of only relying on standard medical treatments, many are now turning to therapies that support the body and mind in a more natural, well-rounded way. This growing interest has brought complementary health into the spotlight.
Complementary health isn’t about replacing your GP or ignoring medicine, it’s about adding extra support to help you feel better, manage stress, and recover more easily. So, what is it exactly, and why are so many people giving it a go?
What is complementary health?
Complementary health includes a variety of therapies that are used alongside regular medical treatment. These can help the body heal, reduce pain, and improve your overall wellbeing. Some common examples are:
Acupuncture
Herbal medicine
Chiropractic care
Meditation and yoga
Aromatherapy
These therapies are often used to ease stress, improve movement, or help with ongoing pain or health issues. They don’t replace medical care but work together with it to support your health from different angles.
Is there any science behind complementary health?
Yes — more and more research is showing that these therapies can actually work. For example, studies have found that massage helps lower stress hormones like cortisol and increases blood flow, which helps your body heal. Acupuncture has been linked to pain relief, and meditation has been shown to help with anxiety and even blood pressure.
Many people with long-term health conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or back pain say they feel better when they use complementary therapies along with regular treatment. While they may not be a “cure,” they can make a real difference in how someone feels day-to-day.
How is it being used in today’s healthcare?
A big shift is happening in healthcare. These days, it’s not unusual to see complementary therapies offered in hospitals and clinics. Some places have massage therapists on staff to help patients recover after surgery or manage ongoing pain. Others offer acupuncture or mindfulness sessions as part of treatment plans.
This shows that healthcare providers are starting to take a more holistic approach, looking at the whole person, not just the illness. It’s about treating the body, mind, and emotions together, which can often lead to better results and a more positive experience for patients.
Real-life example: Tackling chronic pain with a mixed approach
To see how complementary health can work, take someone who’s had back pain for years. They might try everything from painkillers to physiotherapy, with only limited success. But once they start having regular massages alongside their physical therapy, they finally notice a real improvement like less pain, more movement, and a better quality of life.
That’s the power of using both types of care together. It’s not about choosing one or the other, it’s about finding what works best for your body.
How to get started with complementary health
If you’re thinking about trying out some complementary therapies, here are a few helpful tips:
Chat with your doctor
It’s always a good idea to talk to your GP first, especially if you have a health condition or are on medication. They can help you figure out what’s safe and might even recommend a trusted practitioner.
Find someone qualified
Make sure your therapist or practitioner is properly trained and certified. Whether it’s a massage therapist or an acupuncturist, check their credentials and reviews to make sure you’re in good hands.
Go with what feels right
Every person is different. What works for one person might not work for someone else. Be open to trying things but also pay attention to how your body responds. It’s okay to try a few different things before finding what suits you best.
Give it time
Some therapies might take a few sessions before you notice a big difference. Don’t expect overnight results, healing is often a gradual process so stick with it and be patient with yourself.
Ready to make massage part of your health journey? Book an appointment with our friendly team today, we’d love to help.
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