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African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines
African Ethnomedicines Network
ISSN: 0189-6016
Vol. 9, No. 3, 2012, pp. 440-448
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Bioline Code: tc12061
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2012, pp. 440-448
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QUALITATIVE CONTENT ANALYSIS OF COMPLEMENTARY TOPICAL THERAPIES USED TO MANAGE DIABETIC FOOT IN JORDAN
Abu-Qamar, Ma'en Zaid & Wilson, Anne
Abstract
In order to alleviate diabetic foot problems, patients sometimes seek complementary therapies outside the
professional context. This paper describes the use of complementary remedies as a topical treatment for diabetic foot ulcers
among Jordanians. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse written responses of 68 patients with diabetes who have
used complementary therapies to treat diabetic foot problems. These 68 persons represented a subgroup of the study
population surveyed using a questionnaire, to the effect of investigating diabetic foot treatments provided in Jordan.
Informants were recruited from eight healthcare facilities established in the southern part of Jordan plus from one hospital
established in the Jordanian capital. The study was approved by the Boards of Ethics of the participating healthcare facilities.
Content analysis yielded the category “Complementary Therapies Used”, which included a range of household items (olive
oil, sesame oil, honey, and vinegar), and also some indigenous Jordanian herbs (Wormwood, Myrrh, Caper, and Henna
among others). The remedies were used either as a monotherapy or as mixtures, to the common goal of treating diabetic foot
problems. Other interventions like Al-cowy were also sought from traditional healers. Educational campaigns are required to
increase the awareness of patients and their families on possible hazards of unwise complementary therapy use. The decisions
on the use of such therapies should be made in agreement with the attending healthcare professionals.
Keywords
Content analysis; complementary therapy; diabetic foot; Jordan; foot ulcers; prevention
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© African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines Alternative site location: http://journals.sfu.ca/africanem/index.php/ajtcam
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