Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) – A protocol of a rapid umbrella review.

Studies show that the utilisation of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is common among patients with RMDs. Patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) frequently seek CAM due to apprehensions regarding pharmaceutical side effects, ongoing symptoms despite standard treatment, and the belief that CAM is natural and generally well-tolerated. CAM use is more common among women, younger individuals, and those with lower educational level and income. Most patients find CAM therapies helpful, indicating its significance in addressing health concerns, including RMDs. A systematic review of high-quality randomised controlled trials (RCTs) indicates that certain therapies, such as acupuncture for osteoarthritis, may be advantageous, but evidence for other modalities remains ambiguous.