An Introduction To Complimentary And Alternative Medicine (CAM)

Complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM) covers an extensive array of therapies used either alongside or instead of conventional medicine.

This section of the skincancer-survivor.com website is dedicated to researching the latest therapies available, both alternative and complimentary, looking specifically at those that may offer benefit to the skin cancer patient.

According to the NHS Evidence website, the UK House Of Lords Select Committee evaluated the term complimentary and alternative medicine and defined the meaning as follows -

• Group 1: Professionally Organised Alternative Therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal medicine, homeopathy and osteopathy).

• Group 2: Complementary Cancer Therapy (Alexander technique, massage and aromatherapy, Bach Flower Remedies, body work therapies, including massage, counseling, stress therapy, hypnotherapy, meditation, reflexology, Shiatsu, healing, Maharishi ayurvedic medicine, nutritional medicine, yoga)

• Group 3: Alternative Disciplines
• 3a: Long-established and traditional systems of healthcare (anthroposophical medicine, ayurvedic medicine, Chinese herbal medicine, Eastern medicine, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine)
• 3b: Other alternative disciplines (crystal therapy, dowsing, iridology, kinesiology, radionics).

Complimentary Skin Cancer Therapy

Complimentary therapy may be used alongside hospital treatments. They should 'compliment' your treatment plan and should have the approval of your doctor.

The aim of complimentary therapy is to enable you to manage your symptoms, reduce stress, cope with anxiety and stay positive.

Some of the best complimentary therapies are -

• Alexander Technique
• Massage and Aromatherapy
• Bach Flower Remedies
• Counselling
• Stress Management
• Hypnotherapy
• Meditation
• Reflexology
• Shiatsu
• Ayurvedic Medicine
• Nutritional Therapy & Supplements
• Yoga and Strengthening Exercise

Alternative Therapies For Skin Cancer - It's Your Choice

Alternative medicine is defined as a treatment that is used instead of conventional (hospital) medicine.

When looking into skin cancer alternative therapy, there is a huge divide. Modern cancer treatments use powerful chemicals and some people feel these chemicals may cause more harm to the body than good. An alternative treatment option for them is therefore preferable.

Some alternative therapies for cancer come in the form of topical creams and are used to destroy cancerous tissue. I have to ask whether this is a safe route to follow. If this is your area of interest, I cannot stress the importance of fully researching the products before using them. Some treatments are under much debate due to their possible severe side effects. Ultimately it is your choice if you wish to self diagnose or turn your back on modern medicine but do go into it fully informed and with your eyes open.

Summary

Complimentary and alternative medicine is not for everyone. Some will oppose its findings unless there is scientific data to prove its success rate.

However, it is truly up to the individual to decide whether therapies such as aromatherapy massage or the Alexander Technique may benefit conditions such as stress, tension headache and muscle spasms and aid relaxation and wellbeing.