Assessing Complementary Therapies in Health and Social Care: A Report

This report provides a detailed overview of complementary therapies within the context of health and social care. It begins with an introduction outlining the report's scope, which includes an examination of various therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, Alexander techniques, aromatherapy, and homeopathy. The report explores the advantages and disadvantages of these therapies, along with factors influencing access, such as side effects, mobility, geographical location, and cultural considerations. Furthermore, it addresses the regulation of complementary therapies and presents factsheets detailing the principles and practices of selected therapies, their role in relation to orthodox treatments for various health conditions (musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardio-respiratory, and psychological), and their contemporary applications. The report concludes with a comparison of the effectiveness of complementary therapies and offers insights into their potential to improve health and well-being, including the role of naturopathy and reiki.