The Use of Complementary/Alternative Medicine Therapies for the Self-Treatment of Pain Among Residents of Urban, Suburban, and Rural Communities
Year: 2003
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The use of complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) therapies has increased dramatically in the past decade.1,2 Frequently, these therapies are used to seek relief from pain, one of the most common health problems today. In the United States, 42% of adults experience pain daily, and 89% experience pain monthly.3 Many people frequently rely on self-treatment of their pain, often utilizing CAM therapies in addition to traditional medications without informing their health care practitioners.3–5 As the number of medications and herbal products/supplements an individual takes increases, so does the likelihood of experiencing drug interactions.6
This brief report describes the occurrence of pain among community residents and identifies the CAM therapies used for self-treatment of pain. Similarities and differences found in urban, suburban, and rural communities are described.
Institution: Wayne State University
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1997949075