An Alternative Career in Alternative Medicine

By Shea Richardson
shea.richardson@medicalhealthcarecareerschools.com
Medical Healthcare Career Schools Columnist

If you are interested in becoming a doctor or working with medicines, but don't agree with conventional treatment, you should consider a career in alternative medicine.

What Is Alternative Medicine?

Alternative medicine is any medical or health care system, practice, or product that is not currently considered to be part of today's conventional medicine. It is used in place of conventional medicine, but with the same goals of prevention and healing.

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Types of Alternative Medicine

• Homeopathic medicine. This type functions on the belief that small quantities of medicinal substances can be given to cure symptoms. However, if these substances were given at a higher dosage or were more concentrated, it would cause the actual symptoms.
• Naturopathic medicine. This type believes that the human body has the healing power within that can establish, maintain, and restore health.
• Chiropractic. This type focuses on the spine and the relationship between it and bodily functions.
• Massage. This type deals with manipulating muscles and connective tissue in order to enhance the function of those tissues, as well as promoting relaxation and well-being.
• Acupuncture. This type involves a technique that penetrates the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by hands or by electrical stimulation.

If you are interested in this fascinating and exciting career, you should enroll in an alternative medicine college or complete your online degree in this field. There are many alternative medicine colleges that offer different levels and types of degrees, including online degrees.

About the Author

An accomplished educator and writer, Shea Richardson has several years of teaching experience in the Georgia public school system. She holds a degree in Education from Georgia State University and specializes in topics spanning technology, education, and group dynamics.

Posted on: September 29, 2005