The Cancer World online magazine recently published a debate over the use of complementary and integrative medicine to treat cancer patients. One of the conclusions drawn stated that the effectiveness of integrative medicine and combining different techniques is not one that could be ignored.
Though integrative oncology or integrative medicine for cancer is quickly gaining popularity and momentum, many out there are still unclear about what it entails.
Comparing Two Treatment Options
We’re going to elaborate on some of the differences between the integrative medical approach and conventional cancer treatment.
Conventional Cancer Treatment Options
Conventional cancer treatment options include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiology.
Surgery is most effective if cancer cells present within the body have not spread from the site of the main tumor. In such cases, the cancer and surrounding malignant growth are surgically grafted out.
Radiology like surgery is area specific. Malignant growths or cells are targeted and bombarded with high energy particles. This in turn kills cells diminishing the tumor.
Chemotherapy employs the use of certain chemical agents which are used to kill cancerous cells. The problem with chemotherapy is that the strong chemicals cause damage to other cells within the body as well. It is due to this that those undergoing chemotherapy suffer from numerous unpleasant side effects.
Conventional cancer treatments may be supplemented by nutritional plans and other medication.
The Basics of Integrative Oncology
Integrative medicine, including integrative oncology, operates on the understanding that the overall health of the individual needs to be addressed even when working with a specific sickness.
Some of the wellness techniques incorporated in integrative oncology are massage, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga. The treatment also includes specific exercise programs encompassing various aerobic activities. These are recommended keeping in mind the needs of the specific patient being treated.
Another key aspect of integrative cancer treatment is nutrition. Holistic doctors need to ensure that the nutritional needs of patients are being met. This is achieved through specialized diet plans as well as provisional supplements. IV drip therapy is also given as and where needed.
The purpose of integrative cancer treatment is to reinforce the body, equipping it with the nutrients needed to fight the disease.
Wrapping it Up
To bring our comparison to a close, we will say that conventional cancer treatment is geared towards removing tumors altogether. Though beneficial, it comes with an array of side effects that seriously affect the patient’s quality of living.
Side effects of such treatments do not just kill cancer cells but cause other parts of the body to deteriorate as well. In many instances, tumors redevelop, and patients eventually lack the physical strength to undergo more treatments.
Integrative cancer treatment or integrative oncology doesn’t just make tumors vanish. It inhibits tumor growth, keeping you healthy and fit. As a result, it prolongs life expectancy and ensures that your life is as pleasant and productive as possible.
If you’re considering integrative oncology as a treatment option, our Sherman Oaks, LA-based integrative medicine center offers numerous treatment programs including IV drip therapy and integrative cancer treatment.
Our holistic doctors work closely with patients to set treatment plans and to achieve recovery goals. Feel free to connect with us for more information on how we can help you!