Complementary therapy

Many people find complementary therapies helpful. They don’t cure arthritis, but they may ease pain, stiffness and some of the side effects of taking drugs, as well as helping you relax. You can usually use them alongside conventional treatment, though doctors vary in their attitude towards them.

There are dozens of complementary therapies. They fall under three categories – touch, pressure and movement therapies; medicine and diet-related therapies; and mind and emotion therapies.

Some of the therapies most popular with people with arthritis are:

• acupuncture
• Alexander technique
• aromatherapy
• chiropractic
• homeopathy
• hydrotherapy
• massage
• meditation
• osteopathy
• tai chi
• yoga

Some are reputable and regulated by statutory bodies. Others make dubious claims without the scientific evidence to back them up. Treat any practitioners who advise you to stop conventional treatment with extreme caution.

Although most people pay for their own treatment, some therapies are available on the NHS, so it’s worth asking your GP if he or she can refer you. Some private health insurance also covers them.

Doing it safely

If you do decide to try a complementary therapy, the following checklist will help you ensure your treatment is reliable and safe.

• Ask your GP if he or she can refer you on the NHS.
• Ask your complementary therapist how much treatment will cost and how long it will take.
• Find out whether the therapist is a member of a professional body.
• Find out whether they have insurance in case something goes wrong.
• Ask about their training and how long they have been practising.
• Don’t stop taking prescribed drugs without discussing it with your GP.
• Tell your complementary therapist about any prescribed drugs you are taking.
• Tell your GP about any complementary therapies you are using.

For more information about the therapies most likely to help you, look at our booklet Drugs and Complementary Therapies.

The Institute for Complementary Medicine can also send you a list of local practitioners.