The table below summarizes the ways in which complemetary and alternative medicine (CAM) may be helpful. The table is this blog’s compilation based on the information in the paper cited below.
Acupuncture | pain, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy | |
Energy therapies | magnetic field therapy, reiki, Healing Touch, qi gong | are not fully understood—may help reduce stress and pain |
Massage and reflexology | anxiety, pain | |
Mind-body therapies | meditation, guided imagery, expressive arts (art, dance, music), cognitive-behavior therapy | anxiety, mood disturbance, chronic pain, quality of life, fatigue, nausea |
It is arguable whether physical activity falls under CAM or not and it is for this reason that it is being added separately in this post. Physical activity may be recommended for quality of life, physical functioning, emotional well-being, fatigue, cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and body composition.
Clearly, people should seek out highly qualified and experienced individuals for all these treatements.
Source: “Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Integrative Oncology: Complementary Therapies and Botancials”, Journal of the Society of Integrative Oncology, Vol 7, No 3 (Summer) 2009, pp: 85-120
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