Prevalence of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Fracture Patients: a Tertiary Trauma Center Observation

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatment practices are frequently utilized by patients alongside conventional modern medicine. CAM options are commonly practiced by orthopedic trauma patients and are usually driven by cultural and sometimes religious beliefs. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, practices and influencing factors of CAM use among orthopedic patients. An observational cross-sectional survey study was carried out at the Orthopedic Department fracture clinics in a tertiary trauma center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited from orthopedic fracture clinics and requested to complete a questionnaire survey. Among the 356 surveyed fracture patients, 49.4% reported using CAM. Of these CAM users, 20.5% patients used CAM for the first time after being diagnosed with fracture, while 79.5% of patients had previously utilized CAM and increased their usage after fracture diagnosis. CAM practices were significantly associated with older age, joint reconstructive fracture treatment, and reported disability/dependence. Fenugreek was the most commonly consumed type by 81% of CAM users. The key motivations for CAM use were the perception of enhancing the fracture healing process and maintaining good health. Notably, 61.5% of CAM users reported experiencing improvements in their physical health, while 9.0% of the users experienced adverse effects such as weight gain and joint pain. Our study shed a light on the high prevalence of CAM usage among fracture patients, with Fenugreek being the most popular. Potential influencing factors for CAM practices were investigated including demographic, socioeconomic as well as fracture-related factors. Despite its high prevalence, CAM use is often not discussed with the treating physicians, therefore, increased physician awareness and enhanced patient communication about CAM practices are essential. Further investigations are required to explore CAM adverse effects as well as impact on fracture healing and general health.