Do any of you use some of the various complementary therapies available today?

Whether it is an osteopath, using Reiki, sports massage, holistic medicine, Pilates or some other type, they all have their champions and detractors.

How do you decide what might work for you?

Will they help with your aches and pains, a sports and activity injury or lift your mood if you’re just not feeling at your best?

Complementary therapies differ from conventional drugs and medicines in several ways.

Drugs prescribed by a GP or hospital are rigorously tested and evaluated, with years of scientific research behind them.

This isn’t always the case for complementary therapies. Although some have been tested in good quality scientific trials, the majority haven’t.

It requires a leap of faith by the would-be user.

So why do so many of us have such an interest in unconventional therapies such as reflexology, acupuncture or homeopathy?

How do you know if such interventions are working? Why do some people report outstanding results while others don’t note any changes? Who is right?

I suppose the only way to reach any decision is through personal experience.

At least by doing so, you can assess any impact such treatment has on your aches and pains, wellbeing and mindset.

Every week, I take 77 tablets plus two injections, all medically prescribed for three medical
conditions.

It makes sense to explore other avenues should I get a cold, sore throat, hurt my back or just feel unwell, rather than take yet more medicines.

I can’t explain how a warm wheat bag eases an arthritic knee. I only know in my case it does.

I have tried several therapies with varying degrees of success: some seem very sensible; others are beyond my understanding.

I cannot begin to understand the benefits of using moxibustion, or angel therapy, although some people are staunch advocates of them.

I have tried both reflexology and aromatherapy. They were pleasant experiences but not for me.

Acupuncture was a game-changer and prescribed on the NHS.

Definitely helped my frozen shoulder both with pain management and movement.

Many years ago, a friend advised that I try Reiki, a technique which uses the body’s inner energy force to help with stress and anxiety.

There have been clinical trials and academic papers on Reiki, many detailing positive outcomes.

As described to me, I was sceptical of its claims.

However, her persistence paid off, and I made an appointment. After a 90-minute session, I
couldn’t believe how relaxed and well I felt!

It was like being physically and mentally re-set.

To this day, I still have a session every now and again, and the same feeling happens each time.

Some therapies appear strange. Try using a weighted blanket or have an Indian head massage!

I’ve heard positive reports about both practices.

Maybe we look too hard for logical explanations.

Maybe there are some inexplicable forces that work only for our good. Just saying!