Acupuncture: Developed in China centuries ago, this treatment involves piercing the skin with very fine needles at "acupoints" on the body. The philosophy believes that <>qi (pronounced "chi"), or "vital energy" flows through the body along specific pathways, which connect individual organs to specific parts of the skin (the acupoint). By piercing the points on the skin that connect to the ailing organ, the energy flow will be restored to the organ, thereby healing it. The practice is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. For more on acupuncture see our article pricklyIssue. (Also see acupressure and Traditional Chinese Medicine.)

Acupressure (also known as Shiatsu or Jinsin Jitsu): Acupressure is based on the same philosophy as acupuncture, but, instead of needles, pressure is applied either with the fingers or with specialized instruments to the specific "acupoints" of the body. (Also see acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.)

Alternative Medicine: The healthcare methods that come under this label have equal value to and are used in the place of conventional healthcare practices. Although some alternative medicines and therapies may indeed be alternatives, the term is often applied to scientifically unproven methods. It appeals to some patients' preferences for "natural" healing.

Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy uses essential oils – highly concentrated oils extracted from plants – and is based on two premises: that our sense of smell can induce relaxation or stimulate energy; and that, with direct application to the skin, certain oils can stimulate the muscles or the central nervous system. Depending on the patient's needs, oils are massaged or applied to the skin, inhaled (either directly or diffused into a room), or ingested (once diluted in water). If a patient feels stressed, for example, the practitioner may diffuse a calming blend of oils into the air, or, if the patient has sore muscles, eucalyptus oil may be massaged into the affected area.

Art Therapy: This therapy is based on the premise th