Complementary therapies in medicine
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Both pragmatic and explanatory randomised controlled trials have a useful role to play in the evaluation of health care interventions. In this descriptive article, the key steps in conducting a pragmatic trial are described. ⋯ Comparisons are made between pragmatic and explanatory trials, on the understanding that trials may have aspects to them that make the trial more of a hybrid. A case is made for the appropriate use and relevance of pragmatic trials in the evaluation of alternative and complementary medicine.