The topic of alternative medicine was a source of controversy on the Dr. Oz show. Many modern medical doctors oppose alternative treatment practices, but there are some, including Dr. Oz who embrace them. “Many members of the medical community are afraid of alternative health care practices,” said Dr. Oz who was joined by Dr. Stephen Novella from Yale University and Dr. Mimi Guarneri from Scripps Hospital.
Dr. Novella opposes the use of alternative medicine and believes it is ineffective. He thinks that medical treatment must be based on the American approach to scientific research and evidence, and gives little, if any credibility to medical practices from Asian countries. Dr. Guarneri, on the other hand, is open-minded, and supports alternative treatments. She is an advocate of both acupuncture and prayer - whatever works for her patients. Dr. Oz agrees that western medical doctors need to be receptive to alternative medicine treatments, which include herbs and supplements, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic treatment, and meditation.
According to Dr. Oz, more than 50% of Americans use dietary supplements, such as herbs, which he and Dr. Guarneri believe are effective. Dr. Novella opposes the use of herbs and insisted that the herbs do not work. Dr. Guarneri stressed the importance of informing your doctor of any herbs and supplements you are taking, and advises patients not to mix them with standard medications. Dr. Oz informed viewers about a website, naturalstandard.com, which he states as a good resource for information on supplements; the website provides research about the effectiveness of various supplements.
Dr. Oz later discussed the health benefits of acupuncture stating that there are millions of people who find it effective. Dr. Guarneri recommends acupuncture for her patients for pain relief and to treat inflammation; this enables them to exercise and helps their hearts. Of course, Dr. Novella opposed the use of acupuncture - making it obvious that he strongly supports the use of drugs to treat pain.
Many patients are uncomfortable talking to their doctors about alternative medicine because they are not sure their doctors will be open to such practices. However, Dr. Oz recommends being personally involved in your health care and customizing therapy to meet your individual needs.
If you would like to try alternative medicine, but your doctor is against it, you might need to consider finding another doctor. Modern medicine is great, but there are always risks and side-effects. Sometimes a new approach, such as alternative medicine practices like acupuncture, could be the answer to your prayers.
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