Acupuncture

One of the most popular alternative choices is the Asian practice of accupuncture. Patients allow the physician to insert needles at specific nerve locations in order to relieve pain. Patients return for repeat treatment periodically for long-term relief.

Iridology

An unusual method of diagnosis in alternative medicine, practitioners claim clues to the body’s condition are visible in the eye itself. An iridologist “reads” a patient’s iris to determine the presence of illness, poor health, or physical condition — many also prescribe holistic treatments or herbal remedies for conditions.

Ear Candles

With a surprising number of clinics and followers, the use of ear candles has gained popularity over the last few years. Patients seeking complete relief from ear wax clogs, a stuffy head, or blocked ear passages lie flat on their side as a special candle is inserted in their ear and lit. The heat supposedly “melts” the wax trapped inside and causes it to flow out. After a dual-side treatment, many patients claim that their sense of hearing, smell, and taste were improved by this waste-reduction technique.

Pressure Point Guides

Pressure point massages, especially those involving the foot, have moved from massage tables to do-it-yourself magazine articles as the method gains popularity. Using “pressure points” in one part of the body to influence another, practitioners claim the method can relieve pain, nausea, tension, fluid retention, and a host of other complaints.

Finding relief through unusual alternative practices intrigues many patients curious about treatments outside the norm. A little investigation and a trial visit may provide the solutions they seek.