Comments on: Why Is It That When Physical Therapists Use Unproven Methods It Is Not Called Alternative Medicine?

By: Lisa J

Lisa J — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:44:09 +0000

You mean despite the constant publishing of articles in peer reviewed literature?

By: mistify

mistify — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:31:19 +0000

maybe because they are theory-laden (there are reasons to believe they should work… most alternative medicine is just scam artists trying to make a buck)

By: mistify

mistify — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:10:53 +0000

Why should those methods be called “medicine” when physical therapy is not called medicine either? And why should they be called “alternative”? As an alternative to what? They are just a development of what was there before. Just like Cobalt treatment of cancer or new medication for cancer is not called “alternative” either. They are still used in a conventional framework and are not an alternative to anything. Just a complement or supplement.

By: The Professor

The Professor — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 02:42:12 +0000

…I question why we use it at all. You are right…not only are they not proven, but for the most part they’ve been UNproven. PTs that are on the cutting edge of evidence based practice realize this.
…there is a excellent body of evidence for exercise, mechanical classification, directional preference exercise etc. These are the things on which we need to continue to focus.
Its things like ultrasound, electrical stim, massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, strain counterstrain, and kinesiotaping which are giving the profession a terrible name. I suggest that insurance companies stop paying for them until it’s proven otherwise.
…I agree with you 100%
…but let’s call them what they really are: The placebo effect