Steven KH Aung, CM MD PhD OMD FAAFP

There are many complementary medical modalities. Some pertain to visualization, some to the ears and the auditory system, some to touch, some to oral treatments and medications and so on. Even though there is tremendous variety in these areas, most of the effective diagnostic and treatment protocols are associated with energy. Many of these modern complementary and integrative approaches are oriented toward prevention and self-care. In terms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), these are regarded as various aspects of Qi (vital energy). TCM diagnosis encompasses various techniques such as inquiry, inspection, palpation, auscultation/olfactory as well as other specific procedures such as auricular, tongue, hand and Shen (spirit) diagnosis. This is a holistic, integrative process, and the treatment follows along the same lines, with the aim being to relieve the pain and restore the harmony and well-being of the patient. Western medicine is well known for its scientific approach, and this is very useful for accurately detecting and measuring various pathophysiological conditions such as those pertaining to heart disease, cancer and arthritis. However, biomedicine is oriented toward pharmaceutical and surgical treatment and has not yet developed a concept of the holistic human being. It is excellent in emergency situations in order to quickly stabilize patients and monitor their state of relative homeostasis. For longer term care and prevention, TCM and the various complementary therapies have a vital role to play. The different systems of primary care should work together in a harmonious manner for the health and well being of our dear patients. We should always try to use the best of the various approaches in a competent, conservative, communicative and compassionate manner. Safety and efficacy must continue to be our primary concerns as family physicians and practitioners.