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Complementary therapies

The term ‘complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)’ covers any medical and healthcare practice that is not part of mainstream or conventional medicine

There are many types of CAM. A few have been well researched and have some scientific basis, while others are based on a range of theories that are not supported by current scientific knowledge. Some forms of CAM—e.g. Chinese/herbal medicines and vitamin supplements — should always be avoided by anyone with kidney disease. Others (e.g. massage, meditation) are unlikely to do you any harm and may help you to cope better with your symptoms. It has been found in some cases that acupuncture can reduce pain, and meditation can help to reduce blood pressure.

Contents

If you decide to try CAM:

  • Before embarking on any form of treatment, get the go-ahead from your doctor to make sure that you will not harm your health.
  • Never, never, ever stop a treatment prescribed by your doctor just on the advice of a CAM practitioner.
  • You may well have to pay for each session of your treatment. Although your GP may be able to refer you for some CAM therapies, local health organisations are limiting access to these treatments, citing lack of evidence for their effectiveness and safety, as well as many other calls on limited NHS resources.
  • Choose a CAM practitioner who is a member of an independent professional organisation that has standards for qualification, a code of practice, and insurance to cover you if there are problems.
  • Find out as much information as possible about the treatment you want to try: what are its benefits? Is it safe? What are the side effects? Does it interact with treatments from your doctor?
  • Remember the power of the placebo (dummy treatment). Did you feel better because the practitioner was able to spend a long time discussing your problems? And would your problem perhaps have gotten better without any treatment?
  • If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So be sceptical of claims to cure ADPKD—often only in exchange for large amounts of your money.

More information

There is a helpful description of the various CAM disciplines in the Sixth Report of the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee (2000).

For a list of CAM professional bodies, go to the website of the Research Council for Complementary Medicine.

Authors and contributors

Written by: Hannah Bridges

With thanks to all those affected by ADPKD who contributed to this publication.

Ref No: ADPKD.CAM.2014

UNDER REVIEW

Disclaimer: This information is primarily for people in the UK. We have made every effort to ensure that the information we provide is correct and up to date. However, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical examination. We do not promote or recommend any treatment. We do not accept liability for any errors or omissions. Medical information, the law and government regulations change rapidly, so always consult your GP, pharmacist or other medical professional if you have any concerns or before starting any new treatment.

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The PKD Charity Helpline offers confidential support and information to anyone affected by PKD, including family, friends, carers, newly diagnosed or those who have lived with the condition for many years.