Alternative Cancer Treatments

Cancer patients find relief from cancer symptoms and treatment side effects with the use of alternative cancer treatments. The Mayo Clinic indicates that alternative and complementary treatments help relieve stress, anxiety, pain and fatigue experienced by cancer patients. Alternative cancer treatments can have positive results when used in conjunction with traditional cancer therapies.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture, performed by a licensed acupuncturist, effectively reduces nausea caused by chemotherapy and relieves pain. The practice of acupuncture uses thin, sterile needles inserted into precise areas of the body.


• Ancient Chinese medicine used this technique to release areas of blocked energy, called chi, along energy paths in the body. Strategically placed needles free the energy blockage, and create a flow of positive energy throughout the body.

Aromatherapy

• The fragrant oils used in aromatherapy help relieve nausea, stress, anxiety and pain. Oils containing lavender relieve stress and pain when massaged into the skin or used in a warm bath. Warming fragrant, essential oils release their scent into the air and promote calmness and reduce anxiety. Patients can seek the help of an aromatherapist or purchase oils from a natural food store and use at home.

Massage Therapy

• A massage therapist uses a variety of techniques to caress the soft tissues of the body. Gentle kneading of the muscles, skin and tendons improves circulation, restores mobility and increases range-of-motion. Massage relieves pain, anxiety, stress and fatigue experienced by cancer patients.


• Look for a massage therapist who regularly works with cancer patients and understands the limits of certain massage techniques. Avoid massages when blood counts are low and in areas close to areas with surgical scars or radiation treatment.

Meditation

• Meditation techniques bring the mind into a state of intense focus and deep concentration. Combine meditation with deep-breathing and relaxation exercises for optimal stress relief and pain relief. Practice meditation at home for a few minutes each day or in a class several times a week.

Relaxation Exercises

• Gentle movements and stretching poses used in Tai chi and yoga increase endurance, combat fatigue and relieves stress. These exercises often combine the relaxing effects of deep breathing and meditation. Relaxation exercises taught by an instructor can adjust to any strength and fitness level and help achieve maximum benefits.

Physical Activity

• Regular physical activity helps relieve stress, improve mental spirits and reduce fatigue. Walking, swimming and gardening gently stretches muscles and improves stamina lost during cancer treatment. Try to participate in 30 minutes of physical activity 5 to 6 days per week.

Biofeedback

• Biofeedback therapy teaches techniques to reduce heart rate and muscle tension by using the mind. An electronic monitoring device detects and alerts the patient of an increased heart rate and blood flow or muscle tension. This signals the patient to use mind techniques to reduce these body functions. A biofeedback therapist teaches techniques to control body functions with the mind and how to identify triggers. Biofeedback therapies can reduce stress and pain in cancer patients.