Complementary therapy

Many people with arthritis find complementary and alternative therapies helpful. They do not cure arthritis, but they may help to ease symptoms. Complementary therapies are often used alongside conventional treatment.

There are dozens of complementary and alternative therapies. They fall under three categories:

• touch, pressure and movement therapies
• medicine and diet-related therapies
• 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 complementary therapies are reputable and required to be regulated. 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 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 these therapies, read our booklet Drugs and Complementary Therapies.

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