What are Alternative Treatments:
Additional Alternative Treatments options for breast cancer patients offers a world of possibilities beyond Standard of Care and
Off-Label Treatments. These holistic approaches, when incorporated as part of a breast cancer treatment protocol are powerful
tools for healing even if they are not first-line treatments for most. For some individuals they serve as effective stand-alone treatments. According to MD Anderson Cancer Center various alternative treatments have show positive impact on quality of life and survival rates among breast cancer patients.
Here are some of the most effective and inspiring options:
- Herbal Supplements – although these are technically Alternative Treatments BCA classifies these as Off-Label necessities also because many now have scientific studies behind them and some are prescriptions that directly correct physical deficiencies that cause and/or allow breast cancer to grow.
- Acupuncture
- Cupping
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Music Therapy
By embracing these alternative treatments women find emotional solace and strength that nurtures the mind which in turn nurtures the spirit and therefore the body, playing an important part in the healing of breast cancer. BCA believes the right supplements that target breast cancer cells and bolster the immune system are as important for breast cancer healing as any medical treatment, prescription drug or OTC supplement because they work in synergy for overall healing.
Breast Cancer healing is about healing the whole woman. BCA believes Alternative Medicine is a critical piece of breast cancer healing. Saying “yes” to more self compassion equals more self-care that brings about better overall health that facilitates breast cancer healing.
Herbal Supplements
BCA highly recommends breast cancer patients see an herbalist to assess overall immune deficiencies and get on a supplement regimen to correct those deficiencies.
Each supplement here is linked to a trusted BCA brand. According to Dr. Paul E. Malik –
BCA Founder & BossLady Roxann Abrams used his book & other resources identified here and on the Off-Label page as research tools for her personal supplements. Her choices are listed here for your ease of identification & purchase. (Individual results will vary for supplements and BCA makes no guarantees for any of the products featured on our website.
This site contains Amazon and other affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, BCA earns from qualifying purchases and may earn commissions from other links at no extra cost to you.
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What is Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”). It is often used as a complementary therapy for various conditions, including cancer.
For breast cancer patients, acupuncture can provide several benefits during and after treatment:
- Pain Management: Acupuncture can help alleviate pain caused by surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
- Reducing Side Effects: It has been shown to reduce nausea, vomiting, and fatigue associated with chemotherapy. It may also help with hot flashes caused by hormone therapy.
- Improving Mental Health: Acupuncture can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, promoting overall emotional well-being.
- Boosting Immune Function: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may enhance the immune system, which is crucial for recovery and healing.
- Improving Sleep: It can help address insomnia, a common issue for cancer patients.
While acupuncture is not a cure for cancer, it can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. It’s essential to consult with a qualified practitioner and coordinate with the oncology team to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What is Cupping
Cupping therapy is an ancient practice rooted in traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which is believed to stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
For breast cancer patients, cupping therapy may offer several benefits:
- Pain Relief: It can help alleviate pain caused by surgery, radiation, or other treatments.
- Improved Lymphatic Drainage: Cupping may assist in reducing lymphedema (swelling due to lymph fluid buildup), which is common after breast cancer surgery.
- Scar Tissue Management: It can help soften and break down mastectomy scar tissue, improving mobility and comfort.
- Stress Reduction: The therapy is often relaxing and can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common during cancer treatment.
While cupping is not a cure for cancer, it can be a complementary therapy to improve quality of life. It’s essential to consult with a qualified practitioner and coordinate with the oncology team to ensure safety.
What is Meditation
Meditation is a practice that involves focusing the mind to achieve a state of relaxation, awareness, and mental clarity. It can take various forms, such as mindfulness meditation, guided visualization, or mantra-based meditation.
For breast cancer patients, meditation offers several healing benefits:
- Stress Reduction: Meditation helps lower stress hormones like cortisol, which can improve overall well-being and potentially support the immune system.
- Improved Emotional Health: It reduces anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence, which are common among breast cancer patients.
- Better Sleep: Meditation can improve sleep quality, addressing insomnia often experienced during and after treatment.
- Pain Management: It may help reduce the perception of pain, making it easier to cope with treatment side effects.
- Cellular Benefits: Some studies suggest that meditation may influence biological markers, such as telomere length, which is associated with cellular aging and disease progression.
What is Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote overall well-being. For breast cancer patients, yoga offers several healing benefits:
- Improved Physical Function: Yoga can help restore flexibility, strength, and range of motion, especially after surgery or radiation therapy.
- Reduced Fatigue: It has been shown to alleviate cancer-related fatigue, improving energy levels.
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Yoga promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones, which can enhance emotional well-being.
- Better Sleep: Regular practice can improve sleep quality, addressing insomnia often experienced during treatment.
- Pain Management: Gentle yoga poses can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cancer treatments.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Yoga fosters a sense of peace and mindfulness, contributing to overall life satisfaction.
Music as a Healer
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It is often facilitated by a trained music therapist and can involve activities such as listening to music, singing, playing instruments, or composing songs.
For breast cancer patients, music therapy offers several benefits:
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Music therapy can help lower stress levels and reduce anxiety, which are common during cancer treatment.
- Pain Management: It has been shown to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with treatments like chemotherapy or surgery.
- Improved Emotional Well-being: Music therapy can help patients process emotions, reduce depression, and enhance their overall mood.
- Better Sleep: It may improve sleep quality, addressing insomnia often experienced during treatment.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: By fostering relaxation and emotional expression, music therapy contributes to a better overall sense of well-being.
Dancing
Dancing is a form of physical and expressive movement. It offers numerous benefits for breast cancer patients during and after treatment. Here’s how it helps:
- Physical Rehabilitation: Dancing improves flexibility, strength, and range of motion, which can be particularly beneficial after surgery or radiation therapy.
- Stress Reduction: The rhythmic and creative aspects of dancing help lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
- Emotional Expression: It provides an outlet for emotional release, helping patients process their feelings and improve their mood.
- Social Connection: Group dance classes foster a sense of community and support, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Improved Quality of Life: Dancing enhances overall well-being by combining physical activity with joy and creativity.
There are many more alternative treatments that can be incorporated into a breast cancer treatment. We have listed the most common and effective that we are aware of. If you have a favorite that is not listed here please let us know!
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References
- MD Anderson Cancer Center. Effects of Alternative Treatments on Breast Cancer Healing
- Mayo Clinic. Stress Reduction Strategies for Breast Cancer Patients.
- Mercola, J. MD (2021). The Truth About Cancer: Natural Strategies for Prevention and Healing. HarperOne.
- Brio-Medical Cancer Clinic. Whole Person Treatment for Breast Cancer.
- Malik, Paul E. MD Cancer Care, The Role of Repurposed Drugs and Metabolic Interventions in Treating Cancer, Front Line
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