Torture : quarterly journal on rehabilitation of torture victims and prevention of torture
Volume 22, Issue 1, 2012, Pages 38-57

Complementary and alternative medicine in the treatment of refugees and survivors of torture: a review and proposal for action. (Review)

Longacre M.* , Silver-Highfield E. , Lama P. , Grodin M.
  • a Bioethics &amp, Department of Health Law, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
  • b [Affiliation not available]
  • c [Affiliation not available]
  • d [Affiliation not available]

Abstract

Survivors of torture and refugee trauma often have increased needs for mental and physical healthcare. This is due in part to the complex sequelae of trauma, including chronic pain, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and somatization. This article reviews the scientific medical literature for the efficacy and feasibility of some complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modalities including meditation, Ayurveda, pranayama/yogic breathing, massage/body-work, dance/movement, spirituality, yoga, music, Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture, qigong, t'ai chi, chiropractic, homeopathy, aromatherapy and Reiki specifically with respect to survivors of torture and refugee trauma. We report that preliminary research suggests that the certain CAM modalities may prove effective as part of an integrated treatment plan for survivors of torture and refugee trauma. Further research is warranted.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

Survivors Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic human Review injury refugee Refugees alternative medicine psychological aspect Wounds and Injuries Complementary Therapies Humans survivor Torture posttraumatic stress disorder
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84876716734&partnerID=40&md5=dae2c0f9689dfaf4c91b809ee146f851
ISSN: 19973322
Cited by: 17
Original Language: English