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Abstract

We have reviewed several types of alternative therapy used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. The data provided by most available research does not show significant results of these therapies in comparison with Western treatment protocols. However, there has been some symptomatic relief reported by patients who have turned to these alternative remedies. Alternative medicine is not without potential harm or danger, especially in the herbal remedies used. Acupuncture is a relatively safe means of therapy, and even though its effect in rheumatic diseases has not been very impressive in terms of influence on the course of disease or laboratory parameters, it has provided some symptomatic relief where pain was involved. Even though acupuncture has not been very effective in rheumatic conditions, there are other published claims for success in migraines, electro-acupuncture in depression, in the prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting, and for nausea caused by chemotherapy as well as for analgesia in childbirth.

Since the public demand for alternative types of therapy is increasing, and since people will go to alternative medicine therapists, it makes sense for medical doctors to become acquainted with these subjects.

Keywords

rheumatoid arthritis acupuncture herbal medicine

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Alternative therapies in rheumatic diseases—pros and cons

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