Integrative medicine and the oncology patient: options and benefits

February 6, 2018   |   Currents in Integrative Healthcare

A new study evaluates the effectiveness of integrative healthcare modalities in dealing with the challenges of cancer, including acupuncture and massage.

Cancer is a major public health problem, and cancer patients and survivors face many physical and emotional challenges after the initial diagnosis, through treatment, and in the post-treatment period. Different integrative medicine (IM) modalities can be used to mitigate some of the physical issues that originate from the cancer itself or the treatment and to promote well-being and emotional health.

These different modalities work together to reduce pain, anxiety, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and peripheral neuropathy, while promoting immune function and improving sleep, range of motion, and an overall sense of well-being.