Breast Cancer Awareness Month has one purpose: to increase the social consciousness concerning breast cancer. Traditional medicine has come a long way in treating this pervasive disease—from chemotherapy to radiation treatments to surgery—though the side effects of these treatments are often harsh and damaging themselves. Traditional medicine treats the disease, but what treats the pain and new problems caused by traditional medicine? To combat such negative reactions to cancer treatment, Alternative and Complementary Medicine seeks to provide patients with a second line of relief. Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing in particular have been shown to successfully mitigate the side effects of cancer treatment.
Here is how Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing can a be vital complement to your cancer treatment:
Acupuncture
In several studies conducted since 2000, Acupuncture has been proven successful in treating many of the symptoms associated with breast cancer treatment. These symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Hot Flashes
- Vomiting
- Pain
- Loss of Appetite
In one study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2000, 104 women being treated for breast cancer with chemotherapy showed a generally positive reaction to Acupuncture for nausea control. All 104 were given anti-nausea medication, though some were randomly selected to undergo Acupuncture treatment, as well. The women who received Acupuncture showed significant improvement in their nausea symptoms in comparison to their non-Acupuncture treated counterparts.
In 2003, another study was published that showed the effectiveness of Acupuncture for pain reduction in cancer patients. Of the patients chosen for the study, 36% saw a reduction in pain, which is a significant success when compared to the 2% who saw pain reduction from a placebo-style Acupuncture.
Nutrition Response Testing
Getting proper nutrition is essential to anyone battling cancer. In order for the body to continue to fight the disease, it needs to receive the nutrients that make it and its systems function properly. Nutrition Response Testing analyzes the body’s neurological reflexes to see whether it is getting the nutrition that it needs. Once we get the results, we can better support any deficiencies or surpluses that are present with diet, lifestyle changes, and nutritional supplementation.
The side effects associated with breast cancer treatment, such as suppressed appetite, constipation, and fatigue, make optimal nutrition pivotal to recovery. What you put into your body naturally affects your energy levels, and having as much energy as possible before, during, and after cancer treatment is extremely important—not only for increased health, but for increased morale and higher spirits, as well—so knowing exactly what supplemental nutrition you need can help you stay motivated to keep fighting.
As with any form of cancer treatment, it is important to consider how medications and treatments will interact with each other. Talk to an acupuncturist to see how Acupuncture can help you manage your cancer treatment symptoms. Dr. Michael Forman and his team at the Total Restoration Health Center in Miami are dedicated to helping you explore your options based on your specific needs through Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing. Call today to set up an appointment.
305-741-2102