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If you suffer from  cancer or another chronic, debilitating illness, you’re probably familiar with all of the ins and outs of traditional treatments. From tests and appointments to invasive treatment methods like surgery and chemotherapy, addressing a serious illness can involve a number of different approaches and techniques. However, while many people are familiar with traditional treatments for cancer and other illnesses, the benefits of alternative therapies aren’t as widely understood. Keep reading for more on alternative and complimentary treatments for cancer and other serious illnesses, including information on techniques, advantages and more.

Massage

For individuals who suffer from chronic illness, massage can be a powerful tool that promotes better health and enhanced quality of life. For example, through the manipulation of the skin, muscles, and tissues, massage can bring about feelings of calm and relaxation. It can also help address symptoms like pain, fatigue and nausea. Especially useful in battling the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatment methods, massage has also been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as promote deeper, healthier sleep.

There are several different types of massage, each with its own techniques, effects and advantages. However, no matter the type, massage is generally considered safe for individuals with cancer, and is growing in popularity as part of comprehensive cancer treatment. What’s more, due to its rising popularity, massage is available in most cities and towns. For example, in cities like Miami, mobile massage companies will travel to clients, and perform massage services in the client’s home or office.

If you think you could benefit from the healing effects of massage, talk to your doctor to find out which type and technique is right for you.

Chiropractic Medicine              

Chiropractic care focuses on the health of the musculoskeletal system. For patients with cancer, the side effects of treatment, as well as the symptoms of disease, can result in joint pain, muscle tension, problems with mobility, and general aches and pains. For these patients, chiropractic medicine can provide the following advantages:

  • Relief from headaches and nausea.
  • Feelings of calm and well-being.
  • Reduced joint and muscle pain.
  • Relief from stress and tension.
  • Relief from neuropathy and nerve pain.
  • Enhanced energy.
  • Better quality of sleep.
  • Enhanced mobility and increased range of motion.

While chiropractic care can offer relief from pain and other uncomfortable symptoms, it’s not for everyone. For example, for patients with bone cancer, or those with low platelet counts, chiropractic medicine should be avoided. Talk to your doctor to see if this type of complimentary care is right for you.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used to treat various symptoms of cancer, and can also be used to relieve some of the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and other aggressive treatment methods. A technique involving the use of needles, which are inserted into the muscles and tissues, acupuncture was developed in ancient China, and is now widely used in the Western world to treat numerous ailments. For example, for patients who have cancer, especially those undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, acupuncture can offer benefits like the following:

  • Pain relief.
  • Reduced swelling and bruising.
  • Quicker healing, post-surgery .
  • Relief from stress and tension.
  • Relief from nausea and vomiting.
  • Improved energy.
  • Enhanced immunity.
  • Relief from constipation, and enhanced digestive health.

Acupuncture is considered a safe complimentary therapy in addressing the symptoms of cancer and the side effects of treatment. However, this form of therapy should only be administered by a licensed professional in a clean, sterile environment.

Treating cancer and other serious illnesses can involve a number of therapies and techniques. And while traditional methods have proven effective, the complimentary therapies listed here can be used as part of comprehensive, integrative care, designed to enhance overall health and quality of life. Talk to your doctor to see which treatment route is right for you.