Use of complementary and alternative medicine among US adults with and without functional limitations

Abstract

Purpose. This study characterizes the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among adults with and without functional limitations. We also examine the reasons for using CAM and for disclosing its use to conventional medical professionals. Methods. Data were obtained from the 2007 adult CAM supplement and components of the National Health Interview Survey (n = 20,710). Results. Adults with functional limitations used CAM more frequently than those without (48.7% vs. 35.4%; p < 0.001). Adults with functional limitations used mind–body therapies the most (27.4%) and alternative medical systems the least (4.8%). Relaxation techniques were the most common therapy used by adults with functional limitations, and they used it more often than those without limitations (24.6% vs. 13.7%; P < 0.001). More than half of the adults with functional limitations (51.3%) discussed CAM use with conventional medical professionals, compared with 37.9% of adults without limitations (p < 0.001). The main reason for CAM use was general wellness/disease prevention among adults with and without functional limitations (59.8% vs. 63.1%; P = 0.051). Conclusions. CAM use among adults with functional limitations is high. Health practitioners should screen for and discuss the safety and efficacy of CAM when providing health care.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is often used for overall health, disease prevention, and to supplement conventional medical treatment.

• While most adults used CAM on the recommendation of friends and family, one-third of adults with functional limitations (FLs) reported CAM use recommended by a health care provider.

• This study found that ~50% of adults with FLs discussed their CAM use with a health care provider.

• Open discussion of CAM use and its safety and efficacy is vital.

Keywords::

• complementary medicine
• alternative medicine
• alternative therapy
• USA
• functional outcomes

Acknowledgments

The findings and conclusions in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest.