Complementary Therapies
Some complementary therapies may help you to cope with your cancer related symptoms and manage any side effects or distress you are experiencing. Do seek out a qualified therapist and please inform your medical team if you are considering taking up complementary therapies. Some therapies can interact or reduce the effectiveness of your cancer treatment, so it is important that your medical team are aware of what complementary therapy you are receiving.
Some examples of complementary therapies:
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from aromatic plants to enhance a person’s overall wellbeing. The scent from the oil can either be inhaled or the oil can be massaged into the skin. Aromatherapy should only be carried out by a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Aromatherapy may be beneficial for a range of cancer related symptoms and side effects but please speak to a qualified therapist first to discuss whether it is appropriate for you.
Reflexology
Reflexology is the act of applying pressure to certain zones on the hands, feet or ears. It is thought that by manipulating certain zones, a person’s health can be improved. Reflexology should only be carried out by a qualified reflexology practitioner. Reflexology may be beneficial for a range of cancer related symptoms and side effects but please speak to a qualified therapist first to discuss whether it is appropriate for you.
Massage
Massage is the act of manipulating muscle and other soft tissues around the body to improve health and wellbeing. There are many different types of massage that aim to achieve specific therapeutic effects. Although gentle massage can be done at home by yourself or a friend or relative, in a salon type environment it should only be carried out by a qualified massage practitioner. Massage may be beneficial for a range of cancer related symptoms and side effects but please speak to a qualified therapist first to discuss whether it is appropriate for you.
Disclaimer: On this website you will find advice to help you manage some of the more common but milder symptoms and side effects of breast cancer surgery. Please ONLY use this advice if you are currently participating in the ePainQ research project, otherwise you must follow the advice given to you by your medical team.
Clicking on the links in the left-hand menu will take you to advice on looking after yourself during treatment. If after following the advice you don’t feel your symptoms are being successfully managed or relieved, or if you become more unwell, you should contact your hospital medical team immediately.