Mesothelioma will require traditional Western medicinal approaches to control symptoms and extend the survival rate. That doesn’t mean a patient undergoing these treatments can’t find relief with more holistic and alternative approaches. Many studies have shown an increased level of comfort, and even healing, by utilizing a combination of traditional and non-traditional treatments.
Yoga as Therapy
Yoga was originally used as a foundation for spiritual meditation among the Hindu faith. It is now incorporated in many of our lives as a form of relaxation, strength training, and exercise. It has been long touted for it’s powerful healing abilities. Using Yoga as another treatment option for mesothelioma is gaining popularity, and can help increase comfort levels in patients undergoing traditional treatments. Setting up a Yoga routine specifically for the symptoms can provide relief from chemotherapy and radiation treatments, as well as decrease pain levels.
Reiki Treatments
Reiki is a form of energy healing that has been found to be beneficial in cancer patients. Reiki was originally used in Japan, and brought to America through Hawaii. It is a practice that utilizes the belief in a life force energy, and a hands on approach to shift the energy to create a healing balance. The result is a feeling of relaxation, pain reduction, and some have reported physical healing as well.
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can help reduce pain, nausea, and other side effects of common treatments for mesothelioma. It has successfully been used to treat fear as well, and bring a sense of peace and well-being. Hypnotherapy is also covered by many insurance plans, and many licensed therapists offer this to patients as alternative treatment options.
Emotional Freedom Therapy
Emotional Freedom Therapy was first made public in 1993. It was used to treat trauma, more specifically, anxiety caused from post traumatic stress disorders. The treatment is based on the idea that negative thoughts can create an imbalance in ones energy field, leading to anxiety, depression, and pain. EFT has successfully been used in those with mesothelioma, helping decrease the anxiety, whether it’s surrounding the disease or the treatment itself.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a practice that has helped people reduce pain for centuries. The idea is that certain points throughout the body can cause pain and tension when they are blocked. A needle smaller than a human hair is inserted in to these points, called acupoints. The needles are then slightly rotated, and the acupoint is opened. The belief is this can reduce pain and anxiety. Acupuncture has been used successfully for many conditions, and can offer relief from fatigue, nausea, and depression.
Rolfing Therapy
Rofling is a combination therapy that uses massage and physical manipulation to increase mobility. The increase in mobility can help reduce pain in many patients who have been undergoing harsh treatments for mesothelioma.