In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how we approach cancer treatment. Many patients are now embracing integrative therapies–formerly referred to as alternative or complementary therapies–to support their conventional medical treatments. This holistic approach aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce side effects, and improve overall quality of life during the cancer journey and beyond.

Why “Integrative” Over Alternative”?

The term “alternative” suggests a substitution for conventional treatments, which can be misleading and potentially harmful. In contrast, “integrative” emphasises the combination of traditional medical care with evidence-based complementary therapies. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, addressing both the disease and the individuals’s overall well-being. Research indicates that a significant number of cancer patients incorporate integrative therapies into their treatment plans, highlighting the importance of this combined approach (Cancer Research UK.org). 

The Role of Integrative Therapies in Cancer Care

Integrative therapies encompass a range of practices designed to complement your medical cancer treatments. These therapies can help you to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, and enhance physical and emotional health. 

Scar Therapy

Surgical interventions often lead to scar tissue formation, which can restrict movement and cause discomfort. Oncology scar therapy involves specialised techniques to mobilise and soften the scar and surrounding areas, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Early intervention can offer the best results, but no scar is too old to change. – Have a look at my post on Scar therapy for more information.

Oncology Massage

Gentle touch therapies like oncology massage are tailored for your individual needs during and after cancer treatment. Oncology massage uses gentle, light-touch techniques that can help reduce pain, reduce anxiety, improve sleep and some people even find it helps with nausea. It is essential to work with therapists trained in oncology massage to ensure your comfort and safety.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

MLD is a gentle massage technique aimed at stimulating the lymphatic system to reduce swelling, it is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing lymphoedema–a common side effect of cancer treatments like surgery and radiotherapy. By promoting lymph flow, MLD can decrease discomfort and it can help enhance mobility.

Mindfulness Based Interventions

Meditation, mindfulness and breath work can help to reduce stress and anxiety and are gaining attention for their benefits in cancer care. These kind of sessions not only help with anxiety, they can improve sleep and help with fatigue. I run a session once a month online before coffee and catch up for support and exchanging lived experience tips.

Exercise for Bone Health

Certain cancer treatments can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures. Incorporating weight-bearing and resistance exercises maintain bone strength and overall physical function. Seek specialist trained therapists who understand bone health and side effects from cancer treatment so that your program is safe, comfortable and effective. – You can find out more by reading my Cancer and Osteoporosis blogs. 

5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer

This UK-based initiative encourages cancer patients, survivors, and their families to participate in monthly 5K events. I am one of the ambassadors for the group in Clacton and we like to say you can walk, jog, run, push, volunteer or cheer. It is a lovely way to get moving in a supportive community, fostering both physical and emotional well-being. We also go for coffee afterwards which also works as a nice peer support group. These are free events and you will find them dotted around the country. We are lucky to have one in Clacton and one in Harwich.

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Post-Cancer Treatment

Treatment for prostate and gynaecological cancers can impact pelvic floor function, leading to issues like incontinence. Specialised exercise sessions focus on training pelvic floor muscles, helping patients regain control and improve their quality of life.

 Exercise Rehabilitation After Breast Cancer Surgery and Treatment

Post-surgical exercise programs are crucial for restoring shoulder mobility, reducing your risk of lymphoedema, and improving your strength. Guided exercise from a specialist therapist can aid in a smoother recovery and enhance your ability to cope with demands of daily living like reaching into cupboards, doing your hair and doing your bra up.

The Growing Acceptance of Integrative Therapies

In the UK, approximately 30% of cancer patients utilise some form of complimentary therapy during their illness (Integrative whole-person oncology care in the UK 2017), I believe more people would if they knew about these therapies. I have been called a “Hidden Gem” by clients seeking my help. This trend highlights the increasing recognition of the value of these therapies in managing symptoms and improving patient comfort. 

Integrative therapies offer valuable tools to complement your treatment, focusing on you as a whole person rather than just the disease. By incorporating any of the practices mentioned, you can experience improved symptom management and a more comfortable journey through your treatment. Consult your medical team and between us all we can come up with a plan that supports you as a whole.

To ask about therapies I offer and if they are suitable for you:

email – fi@therapyinmotion.co or call 07767 384983