Aim of Alternative Therapy
Complementary and alternative therapies aim to improve your quality of life, promote health and wellbeing, as well as cope with cancer and its treatment. They may be used in addition to traditional medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiotherapy; alternative treatments could also be beneficial if there are side effects from either your cancer diagnosis or its management.
Many people opt for alternative therapies because they believe they offer a better way of treating their condition, or have heard positive reports about them. Before trying any new approach, be sure to discuss any treatments with your GP or doctor; they can tell you if they are safe and how well they work, as well as whether they should be taken in combination with regular medical therapy.
They may also inquire about any side effects or how your body feels after treatment. This information can help them make suggestions for alternative treatments that might be suitable.
Complementary and alternative therapies refer to medical treatments that are not part of mainstream medicine, such as herbal medications, acupuncture and massage.
Some of the most sought-after alternative therapies are listed below:
Acupuncture has long been believed to provide comfort during cancer, improve circulation and promote overall good health. This manual therapy utilizes gentle touch to promote natural energy flow within the body and may reduce stress levels.
These herbal medicines are derived from plants and can be taken orally in pill, tea or lotion form. They’re commonly used to address conditions like allergies and chronic pain.
Herbal medicine is not typically seen as an alternative therapy, but it can have some potential advantages. Before beginning any herbal regimen, make sure you consult with your GP or doctor first, especially if you’re taking medications.
Bioelectromagnetics, also known as magnetic field therapy and Chinese medicine, is a practice of manipulating patients’ energy to heal them. This therapy may benefit individuals with osteoarthritis, muscle or bone issues, and other conditions.
Other complementary and alternative therapies worth investigating, such as meditation and spiritual practices.
Mind-body therapies are based on the idea that our emotions, thoughts, beliefs and behaviors affect our physical health. They can be used to treat or prevent disease, alleviate symptoms and prepare patients for surgery.
Dietary approaches involve the use of special diets, dietary supplements, megadose vitamins and herbs to assist patients. These can be effective in improving immunity, preventing disease and curing certain illnesses.
Reiki is a type of healing that draws upon natural healing principles and positive thinking to relieve tension, stress and anxiety. It’s an incredibly relaxing therapy that may be beneficial for some individuals.
Chiropractic is an alternative therapy that targets the spine, joints and muscles. It’s a non-invasive, hands-on technique that has proven highly successful for back problems.