Recent research on the popularity and perceived effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and integrative medicine has shown that the public uses these forms of care in large proportions. For example, more people use CAM for the treatment of neck pain and back pain than conventional medical care (1).

Current interdisciplinary research suggests that the effective and appropriate integration of CAM approaches with conventional medicine may be significantly enhanced and best accomplished with clear and concise evidence-based recommendations (2). As physicians-in-training, knowledge of the evidence supporting the efficacy of CAM modalities is essential in better understanding the needs of our future patients and in promoting interdisciplinary dialogue and cooperation.

The Integrative Medicine Club has been formed with the goal of introducing medical students to non-allopathic health care professions from an evidence-based perspective. In this electronic journal resource, the interested medical student can find research-based data on acupuncture, chiropractic, physical therapy, massage therapy, stress reduction modalities, and herbal remedies, amongst others.  

We hope that you find this information both edifying and applicable.

Gerald A. Anzalone, D.C.
USEOSM Student

References
1. Wolsko PM, Eisenberg DM, Davis RB, Kessler R, Phillips RS: Patterns and perceptions of care for treatment of back and neck pain: results of a national survey. Spine 2003, 28:292-7.
2. Lawrence DJ, Meeker WC: Chiropractic and CAM utilization: a descriptive review. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2007;15;2. doi:10.1186/1746-1340-15-2. Accessed May 26, 2008: http://www.chiroandosteo.com/content/15/1/2.

The Integrative Medicine Club Resource Page