What common CAM modalities are orthopaedic patients using?

Acupuncture - A traditional component of Chinese medicine that has been used for the last 2500 years. Very fine needles are inserted into acupuncture points that lie within meridians, or energy channels, along the body. The stimulation of the meridians is thought to bring about a change in energy flow, or qi (pronounced "chi) in the body.

Massage - Manipulation of soft tissue to ease the pains of the body. There are over 100 types of body work that are currently employed.

Chiropractic - Manual adjustment or manipulation of the spine to correct misalignment of vertebrae, which may affect the nervous system or the musculoskeletal system.

Magnets - Application of magnets to areas of the body. The premise for using magnets is that electricity is ubiquitous and that the application of magnets to certain parts of the body may decrease inflammation, increase circulation, alter the polarity of the cells, or decrease pain symptoms.

Nutritional supplements/ herbals - A molecular chemical alteration takes place within the body upon ingestion. Supplements are administered as pills, capsules, tinctures, infusions, or raw herbs. Supplements and herbs are regulated under the DSHEA Act of 1994.

Meditation - A mind-body technique that attempts to quiet the mind through awareness practices. Meditation involves sitting quietly and focusing attention on a word, phrase, image or breathing.

Alternative medical systems:

Ayurveda - This system of medicine is approximately 5000 years old and is widely used in India today. Ayurveda is a non-invasive system that is focused on "prana" or life energy, as well as spiritual, mental, and physical balance. Diet, yoga, meditation and massage are also important components of ayurvedic medicine.

Naturopathy - A system of medicine that uses natural means. Naturopathy encourages a healthy diet, lifestyle and exercise to achieve healing. Many other therapies may be employed including homeopathy, nutritional/herbal supplements, nutrition, and hydrotherapy.

Oriental/Chinese Medicine - This system of medicine attempts to balance out the yin and yang, which comprise the qi, or vital life force. Yin and yang are thought of as the feminine and masculine forces within an individual. Chinese or Oriental medicine may employ the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, or Qi gong.

Homeopathy - A 200 year old system of medicine based on the theory that like cures like. A miniscule amount of substance is administered to a sick person to provoke a healing response. The same substance given to a healthy person in large amounts would cause illness.