Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to a range of therapies, treatments, and practices that are not considered part of conventional Western medicine. These practices aim to promote wellness, prevent illness, and treat various health conditions. In Russia, CAM is becoming increasingly popular and is often used alongside conventional medical treatments.
CAM Practices in Russia
Russia has a diverse range of CAM practices available, including:
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a system of medicine that originated in India and involves the use of natural remedies, such as herbs, massage, and dietary changes, to treat various health conditions. Ayurveda is based on the principle of balancing the body’s doshas (energy) to achieve optimal health.
In Russia, Ayurveda is becoming increasingly popular, and there are several Ayurvedic clinics and practitioners available. The Russian Association of Ayurvedic Medicine is the main professional organization for Ayurvedic practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.raam.ru/) provides information about Ayurveda and a list of registered practitioners.
Herbal medicine
Herbal medicine involves the use of plant extracts and other natural substances to treat various health conditions. It is one of the oldest forms of medicine and has been used for centuries to promote wellness and treat illness.
In Russia, there are many herbal medicine practitioners available, and the Russian Association of Phytotherapists is the main professional organization for herbal medicine practitioners in the country. Their website (https://fitoterapevt.ru/) provides information about herbal medicine, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a herbal medicine practitioner in your area.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. It involves the use of gentle manipulation and other techniques to alleviate pain and improve function.
In Russia, chiropractic is becoming increasingly popular, and there are many registered practitioners. The Russian Chiropractic Association is the main professional organization for chiropractic practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.chiropractor-russia.com/) provides information about chiropractic, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a chiropractic practitioner in your area.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a system of medicine that originated in China and involves the use of natural remedies, such as herbs, acupuncture, and dietary changes, to treat various health conditions. TCM is based on the principle of balancing the body’s energy (known as “qi”) to achieve optimal health.
In Russia, TCM is widely practiced, and there are many registered practitioners. The Russian Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the main professional organization for TCM practitioners in the country. Their website (http://www.tcm-rus.ru/) provides information about TCM and a list of registered practitioners.
Regulation of CAM in Russia
In Russia, the regulation of CAM practices varies depending on the type of practice. Some CAM practices, such as Ayurveda and chiropractic, are recognized by the government and regulated by professional organizations. Other practices may not be formally recognized or regulated by the government.
Integration of CAM and Conventional Medicine
The Russian healthcare system has a growing interest in integrating CAM and conventional medicine. Some hospitals and healthcare centers in the country offer CAM services alongside conventional medical treatments. Additionally, some medical schools in Russia now offer courses on CAM practices, which can help healthcare professionals understand and integrate these practices into their treatment plans.
Insurance Coverage for CAM
In Russia, most CAM services are not covered by the public healthcare system. However, some private health insurance companies offer coverage for CAM therapies, such as chiropractic and acupuncture. These services may be covered under a supplementary insurance plan, which is optional and requires an additional premium.
Complementary and alternative medicine is a growing field in Russia, providing people with more options for wellness and treatment of health conditions. Ayurveda, herbal medicine, chiropractic, and traditional Chinese medicine are widely practiced and recognized by the government, while other CAM practices may not be as widely available.
Regulation of CAM practices in Russia varies depending on the type of practice, with some practices being formally recognized and regulated by the government and others not. The Russian healthcare system is increasingly interested in integrating CAM and conventional medicine, and some hospitals and healthcare centers in the country offer CAM services alongside conventional medical treatments.
Most CAM services are not covered by the public healthcare system in Russia, but some private health insurance companies offer coverage for these therapies. Overall, CAM is becoming an increasingly important part of the healthcare landscape in Russia, providing people with more options for wellness and treatment of health conditions.