CSU recognizes alternative, complementary medicine

FORT COLLINS, COLO. — Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is the nation's first to have an endowed professorship devoted to the study of alternative and complementary medicine, officials say.

The $600,000 needed to endow Dr. Narda Robinson's seat comes from a $3 million private gift received in 2000. The recognized expert in scientific and science-based alternative medicine will focus on treating and researching complementary and alternative treatments to improve the quality of life of animals with diseases such as cancer. In her new role, Robinson will expand current university research in complementary and alternative medicine with special interest in acupuncture and chiropractic care.

Fifty percent of Robinson's job will focus on treating animal cancer patients at the hospital and researching alternative medical complements to traditional cancer treatments and pain management. In addition, the position will expand research into the medicinal benefits of plants. Robinson also will work with the college's Center for Pain Management and consult with university neurology veterinarians.

"There is research showing that certain applications of alternative medicine, such as acupuncture and some herbs, are meaningful treatments," Robinson says in a prepared statement. "But we must be well-informed. Not all alternative and complementary medicine works well, and not all of what's currently being used in humans and animals is safe. Our agenda is to be objective and base recommendations for alternative medicine on science and research."

Robinson founded complementary and alternative medicine services at CSU's Veterinary Medical Center nearly 10 years ago. Her current research includes the impact of acupuncture on dogs with dry eye, and she is developing the first complete, neuroanatomically-accurate system of canine acupuncture point locations.