Cancer Support Using Naturopathic and Chinese Medicine

Naturopathic therapies can be effective adjuncts to the conventional cancer treatment options of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Naturopathic medicine’s main goals are to support the body’s ability to heal itself, thus improving the success of chemotherapy and radiation therapies, and at the same time helping to prevent and reduce their side effects. More specifically this involves  improving immune function and promoting overall health.

Naturopathic cancer support is customized to the individual, the type of cancer, the patient’s conventional treatment plan, and the specific health of the individual. With integrative care we believe the patient has a higher success of fighting their cancer and maintaining good health.

Following a cancer diagnosis, many people are overwhelmed and confused. Some patients think they have to choose between conventional and alternative treatments. By helping you understand your diagnosis and the pro’s and con’s of your different treatment options, we can help you choose the therapies that are right for you.

We recommend that people utilize an integrative approach from the very start, beginning with prevention, continuing through treatment and then health restoration. This can help reduce or alleviate harmful side effects, enhance quality of life, and perhaps even extend it.

Pre- and Post-Surgery Support
Naturopathic medicine offers many supportive treatments for pre- and post- surgery. Preparing the body for surgery involves enhancing the immune system while providing specific nutritional therapies for wound healing, fighting infection, controlling inflammation, and reducing adhesions and scars. These therapies may also decrease bruising and improve recovery time.

Acupuncture is a very effective pain management tool and can also help improve circulation and immune function.

Homeopathy is often used before and after surgery to help with bleeding and bruising as well as pain and healing time. Arnica montana is one of the most common homeopathic remedies we use for this purpose.

There are some nutritional supplements that should be avoided prior to surgery to decrease bleeding and others that should be added pre- and post-surgery to aid in healing. Our doctors can help you decide which are right for you.

Support During Chemotherapy and Radiation
Both chemotherapy and radiation have side effects that can be as damaging and debilitating as the cancer. Naturopathic therapies can be used to help increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy as well as help reduce its side effects thus aiding in preventing long-term complications and reducing the risk of secondary cancers. The use of acupuncture and Chinese medicine has been proven to aid in decreasing nausea and fatigue associated with conventional therapies.

Fish oil has been shown to help prevent malnourishment and weight loss. IV nutrient/vitamin therapy can help reduce the issues of poor absorption and assimilation of vitamins and nutrients caused by chemotherapy as well as help prevent weight loss. Naturopathic therapies can also be helpful during radiation and help prevent the damage to healthy cells while supporting the body through treatment.

Support After Conventional Treatment
After the completion of conventional cancer therapies, naturopathic medicine offers many ways to help your body detoxify and repair.  Depending on the type of treatment used, we can customize detoxification programs to gently help your body eliminate residual toxic effects as well as help rebuild the immune system. By continuing with an  immune-enhancing diet, proper supplements and stress management, we can help you in your recovery and return to good health.