Monthly Spotlights
Integrative Therapies
Integrative therapies are individual treatments that are used in addition to (or as a complement to) traditional cancer treatment — such as chemotherapy and radiation — and include interventions such as acupuncture, massage therapy, Reiki, meditation, expressive arts, music therapy, nutrition counseling, and Qi Gong (Chinese mind-body exercises).
Integrative (complementary) care supports and encourages the body's natural mechanisms to recover from illness by addressing the needs of the mind, body, and spirit. Research has shown that stress reduction and pain management can lower blood pressure and heart rate, while improving circulation. This allows for greater delivery of oxygen and nutrients to body tissues, which in turn can promote more efficient recovery from trauma and illness.
Related Links
- Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine Information (from the NCI)
- Acupuncture
- Integrative Nutrition Services
Related Stories
- Massage program promotes pediatric healing
- Lenny Zakim Lecture and fair show promise of integrative therapies
- Yoga for Kids class helps pediatric patients get through difficult medical procedures, cope with fear
- Zakim Center celebrates five years of helping heal 'the whole person'
- Study finds one-third of parents include complementary therapies as part of treatment for children with cancer
- Dana-Farber's complementary therapies program grows as the benefits of its services gain wider acceptance among patients, clinicians
- Complementary therapies offer patients integrated care
- Making the most of the moment with mindful meditation
