complementary therapies

Complementary therapies are becoming more and more popular. Many cancer patients are keen to find out what they have to offer, and how they may be used alongside conventional cancer treatments.

This part of our website introduces you to complementary therapies and also to the holistic approach to cancer care and health.

We hope it will answer some of your general questions, as well as give you brief information on some of the therapies and approaches available today.

Complementary and holistic therapies are generally aimed at working with the body's own resources to fight disease, and to give a sense of well-being. Complementary care takes a holistic view of a person, taking into account their whole being - body, mind, emotions and spirit, rather than focussing on the area of the body where there may be disease.

There are many different kinds of complementary and holistic therapies, and most can be used alongside hospital treatment. It is a good idea to check with your treatment team that whatever you choose will not interfere with your conventional treatment. Many people who try complementary and holistic approaches say it helps them to feel more in control and able to participate in their own care and recovery.

However before contacting a therapist there are a few points worth considering.

• Initially your first point of contact should be your health care team to see if complementary therapies are available locally
• Before you start any complementary or holistic therapy it is strongly recommended that you discuss this with the health care team that is providing your care, or your GP
• The therapist should ask about your medical history, allergies and any medicines you are taking before giving you a treatment. They will need to obtain consent from a member of your health care team.
• Do find out about the therapy so that you know what is involved
• Do find the address of a local therapist by contacting the appropriate national body
• If you do not find a therapist by following the above step - Do check that the therapist is a member of a recognised professional body which represents their therapy and that they have public liability insurance
• Do telephone the therapist to find out if they can help you before you go and see them. Ask the price and length of sessions before you pay anything
• Do book one session only at first to see if you like it
• Do try and take a level-headed friend or relative with you to add to your own impressions
• Do tell the therapist about your cancer and any treatments you are having
• Do seek advice from the therapists if you are considering having more than one type of complementary therapy at the same time
• Do stop the session if at anytime you feel uncomfortable
• Do tell the therapist if you feel any pain or discomfort during treatment

For more information on complementary therapies, please click on the links below: