Alternative

Alternative medicine describes practices or products used in place of conventional medical treatments. These are distinct from complementary medicine in that they are used as substitutes for standard medical care, rather than alongside it. While alternative approaches are often derived from cultural or historical practices, they may not always be supported by mainstream scientific evidence.  Alternative medicine encompasses a wide array of practices and products used instead of conventional medical treatments. It's a holistic approach to health and wellness, focusing on the body, mind, and spirit. 

• Herbal Medicine Supplements: This aspect of alternative medicine involves using plant-based substances for medicinal purposes. These supplements, derived from herbs, roots, flowers, and seeds, are used to treat various ailments or promote general health. They play a significant role in traditional healing systems across the world and are often used for their natural healing properties.    

NIH National Library of Medicine – Herbal Medicine 

• Therapeutic Exercise: This refers to physical activities specifically designed to address particular health issues. It includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. Therapeutic exercises are tailored to individual needs, aiding in rehabilitation, pain management, and overall physical wellness.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Therapeutic Exercise 

• Acupressure: A practice stemming from traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. This technique is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and is used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote overall health.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Acupressure 

• Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices focus on mental and emotional well-being. Mindfulness involves being fully present and engaged in the moment, while meditation typically involves techniques for focusing the mind and achieving a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. Both are used for stress reduction, mental clarity, and emotional balance.     

NIH National Library of Medicine – Mindfulness and Meditation

• Spiritual Practices: In the context of alternative medicine, spiritual practices refer to activities that connect individuals to a higher sense of purpose or meaning. These practices can include prayer, meditation, rituals, and other activities that foster a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Spiritual Practices 

• Muscle and Bone Manipulation: Techniques such as chiropractic, osteopathy, and massage therapy fall under this category. They involve manually manipulating the musculoskeletal system to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall bodily function.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Muscle and Bone Manipulation

• Therapeutic Nutritional Ketosis: This is a dietary approach where the body is induced into a state of ketosis, a metabolic state characterized by elevated levels of ketone bodies in the body. Used therapeutically, it can aid in weight management, improve metabolic health, and even support neurological health.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Therapeutic Nutritional Ketosis 

• Combined PEMF/PBM Therapy: This innovative combination involves using Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy and Photobiomodulation therapy together. PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic fields to promote healing and reduce inflammation, while PBM therapy utilizes light to stimulate cellular regeneration and reduce pain. Together, they offer a synergistic approach to treating a range of conditions, from chronic pain to wound healing.   

NIH National Library of Medicine – Photobiomodulation (PBM) / Near Infrared (NIR)

NIH National Library of Medicine – Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF)

In the framework of CDSS like the idōs App, incorporating these diverse alternative practices offers a holistic view of patient health. By understanding and integrating these practices, the idōs App can provide personalized recommendations that align with the unique health needs and preferences of each end user, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to health and well-being.