Medical researchers are making bigger and more amazing discoveries every day. From therapy robots to easily swallowed cameras to even more unusual treatments and diagnostic devices, doctors and scientists are discovering new and exciting ways to find out what’s wrong with people and how to fix it. Some remedies are well-known for treating certain things—but they’re now being used in groundbreaking, cutting-edge ways. Doctors and researchers are discovering new applications all the time. Here, then, is a list of alternative treatments for medical conditions that work.
Botox
You’re probably most familiar with Botox as a punchline to jokes about cosmetic surgery involving expressionless faces. But it has proven useful in treating neurological conditions, too. The paralyzing effects of the Botulinum toxin have been proven to block nerve signals and relax muscles. This has come in handy for treating migraines, spasticity, muscle spasms, and even the drooling and sweating connected with Parkinson’s disease. There’s more to Botox than just removing wrinkles!
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
This one sounds a bit more science-fictional, but studies and tests have shown that it works. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is another one of the great alternative treatments for medical conditions that work. A noninvasive procedure with few side effects, TMS delivers magnetic fields that stimulate nerve cells in the brain, encouraging them to deliver electrochemical signals to other parts of the brain that may be shut off or not working as well. When medication and therapy haven’t worked well for a patient, a neurologist may prescribe TMS treatment. TMS has shown promise in treating the symptoms of depression, tinnitus, anxiety, chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
Massage
For many people, there’s nothing like a massage on vacation to work away stress. But massage can be more than a pleasant day at the spa. It has been used to aid in recovery after surgery or major injuries, stimulating muscles and increasing flexibility. It can fight stress and anxiety by reducing blood pressure and heart rates, and it encourages the production of endorphins. Massage also ameliorates the effects of migraines, muscle tension, and overall pain. Plus, there’s the literal human touch, which can help with feelings of depression and social anxiety.
Aspirin
Take two whenever you have a pain in the head or another body ache, right? But did you know doctors sometimes prescribe aspirin to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and similar issues related to the cardiovascular system? This is not to say you should immediately begin popping two aspirin a day just in case, but it’s worth talking to your health care provider about whether it’s right for you. Some people with heart or blood vessel diseases or blood flow issues may stand to benefit from an extra aspirin a day.
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