Complementary therapies to help deal with symptoms
Some people find that complementary therapies can help with symptoms. These therapies can help you to relax and feel better, although they can’t treat the cancer.
Always tell your healthcare team before starting a complementary therapy, as some may affect your treatment. And tell your complementary therapist about any treatments you are having.
- Massage may help you relax, reduce pain and help you feel better generally. Check with your doctor or nurse if it is safe for you to have a massage. You shouldn’t have massage on any areas where you have any broken skin, or if the massage is making your pain any worse. If you have problems with bleeding you should avoid deep tissue massage.
- Reiki is a gentler type of massage where the therapist’s hands gently brush over the body, or a few inches above the body.
- Reflexology or relaxation therapies may help relieve symptoms such as pain.
- Other therapies that you may find helpful include art therapy, music therapy and pet therapy.
Some hospices, hospitals and charities offer complementary therapies. Your doctor or nurse can tell you what is available in your area. The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council have a list of registered therapists.