Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine is the popular term for health and wellness therapies that have typically not been part of conventional Western medicine. In recent years, doctors have come to see the value of many of these therapies in promoting physical, mental and spiritual wellness. Today, therapies such as acupuncture, meditation and massage are legitimate components of the new field of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Specialists at Mayo created a new specialty (Complementary and Integrative Medicine) to blend the best of both worlds — conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine.

CAM specialists work with other physicians and patients to integrate appropriate complementary therapies and wellness programs into the patient's overall treatment plan.

Mayo Clinic is committed to providing evidence-based care and chooses to use only the CAM therapies that have been tested for effectiveness and safety. Learn more about Mayo's complementary and alternative medicine research.

CAM Therapies Offered

Below is a list of complementary and alternative medicine therapies offered at Mayo Clinic. Each can be a stand-alone treatment or integrated with other treatments.

• Physician consultation
• Stress management
• Acupuncture
• Meditation training
• Hypnosis
• Massage therapy
• Herbs and dietary supplements
• Biofeedback

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Learn more about complementary and alternative medicine at MayoClinic.com.