Evidence-based medicine has become a big buzzword in healthcare over the last few years. But certain non-traditional treatments, like chiropractic care, may also prove effective in certain cases.

The key: Using these treatments in addition to – not instead of – conventional medicine may prove more cost-efficient in the long term.

What the latest research says

Do these five common complimentary treatments belong on your health plan? Here’s what recent research suggests:

1) Chiropractic care. Studies suggest these treatments may help cut absenteeism for employees with uncomplicated lower back pain, especially for people who’ve had it for less than a month.
2) Acupuncture. Research shows acupuncture can help relieve osteoarthritis, chronic migraines, post-operative pain, low-back pain,
fibromyalgia and carpal tunnel syndrome. There’s less evidence about its effectiveness as a tandem treatment for other conditions.
3) Acupressure. There’s no significant research to show this needle-free variation of acupuncture (a therapist applies pressure to specific points on the body) has the same medical benefits.
4) Biofeedback. According to the Mayo Clinic, there’s now some research to suggest this treatment can help with some types of chronic pain, especially tension headaches and muscle pain. How it works: Monitors display a patient’s heart rate, breathing patterns, body temperature and muscle activity. A therapist then teaches the patient how to lower
these readings via relaxation.
5) Aromatherapy. As yet, there’s no evidence of direct medical benefits. While it can be a relaxing treatment to reduce stress, few firms — if any — foot the bill on employees’ behalf.