Complementary therapies

Complementary therapies can be gentle, pleasant, relaxing or stimulating; each therapy has different aims and methods. They range from acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine using fine needles to free energy channels, through to yoga, a combination of meditation and breathing exercises.

Always use a qualified therapist and remember to tell them how your impairment specifically affects you and about any special needs you may have.

Costs will vary according to the length of treatment and your local area. Your first appointment will be more expensive and will last longer as the therapist will need to take details of your medical history. Many doctors will prescribe alternative therapies on the NHS; it is always advisable to ask them before you begin.

For more information

Institute for Complementary Medicine

www.i-c-m.org.uk

The ICM can supply names of reliable practitioners of various kinds of complementary medicine, such as homeopathy, relaxation techniques and osteopathy.

Please note that any mention of a product or weblink does not constitute a recommendation by Scope. As with any therapy or treatment, Scope would advise people to consult their GP, consultant or health professional before starting or paying for any treatment. Due to the individual nature of all impairments, some people will benefit from specific treatments and therapies, others will not. Assessment of individual needs is very important.