Integrative Cancer Treatments

Integrative cancer treatments work in tandem with primary and adjuvant therapies to help reduce symptoms and manage some of the side-effects associated with cancer treatment including stress, sleep disorders, nausea, and vomiting. Although integrative treatments are in no way meant to replace the primary cancer care provided by your doctor, they can provide enormous relief throughout your treatment plan and help put you in a better place both physically and emotionally.

Some integrative cancer treatments include:

Massage Therapy. Massage has been shown to reduce stress and provide overall relaxation which can be very helpful in managing symptoms for cancer patients.

Acupuncture. Acupuncture also helps reduce stress and has been shown to relieve some of the side effects of chemotherapy including nausea. It also has the ability to help reduce and relieve pain.

Meditation and Other Relaxation Techniques. Working with relaxation techniques such as meditation and visualization allows cancer patients to calm their mind and relax their body. Meditation and other techniques can improve sleep, reduce symptoms, and achieve an overall better state of mind.

Exercise. Exercise is always a positive thing to integrate into your daily routine as it helps lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve heart health, and manage weight. Light to moderate exercise, such as walking and swimming can help cancer patients lower their stress, reduce their symptoms, and maintain their energy. Yoga and Tai Chi are especially helpful in this regard.

Aromatherapy.Using essential oils to elicit calm and relaxation, aromatherapy has been known to reduce stress and relieve pain and nausea in cancer patients.

Music Therapy. Music can be used as a wonderful calming technique to relax the body and focus the mind.

Whether you choose one means of integrative cancer treatment or combine several, you can help reduce your stress and manage your symptoms by finding the right formula for you.

If you have any questions about integrative cancer treatments or would like help incorporating these alternatives into your treatment plan, contact us any time. We’re happy to help!