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Integrative & Complementary MEDICINE
Integrating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices and products into an existing treatment plan can be a viable option to enhance and improve recovery methods and comfort. CAM refers to treatments that can be used in addition to or as an alternative to western medical care conducted by physicians, doctors of osteopathy, and allied health professionals. Wounded, ill, or injured service members may elect to explore CAM options as research shows various methods may provide relief from pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, reduction in nausea and vomiting, and improved mood and quality of life through function and fitness.1-3 CAM should always be discussed and coordinated with your health care provider prior to use. Health care providers should also regularly ask their patients about the use of CAM to improve health and healing. We have dedicated this section of the website to the top CAM methods and others that may be of special interest for our wounded, ill, or injured service members.
Exploring Your Options
Body-Based Methods
Mind-Body Based Practice
Natural Products
Additional Information and Tools
[1] Kiecolt-Glaser J, Bennet J, Andridge R, et al. Yoga's Impact on Inflammation, Mood, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial. J Clin Oncol. 2014;32(10):1040-1049.
[2] Complementary and Alternative Health. In: Olpin M and Hesson M. Stress Management for Life. 2nd ed. Belmont, California: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning; 2010: 341-356.
[3] Relaxation Techniques for Health: An Introduction. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stress/relaxation.htm. Published August 2011. Updated February 2013. Accessed May 2014.
Clinical guidance, including recognition, management and clinical isolation guidance are generally covered by CDC: CDC Clinical Overview
Clinical management for Fleet medical personnel can be found in the NMCFHPC Fleet Mpox Medical Guidance
Clinical guidance for MTFs can be found in the DHA Mpox Guidance Update_5Sept2024
Currently, neither mpox testing nor treatment are readily available in a forward deployed operational setting. Units should identify suspected cases, isolate them, and move them for care at an MTF when operationally feasible.
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery 7700 Arlington Blvd. Ste. 5113 Falls Church, VA 22042-5113 This is an official U.S. Navy website This is a Department of Defense (DoD) Internet computer system. General Navy Medical Inquiries (to Bureau of Medicine and Surgery): usn.ncr.bumedfchva.list.bumed---pao@health.mil