Integrative medicine and the oncology patient: options and benefits.

Cancer is a major public health problem, and cancer patients and survivors face many physical and emotional challenges after the initial diagnosis, through treatment, and in the post-treatment period. Different integrative medicine (IM) modalities can be used to mitigate some of the physical issues that originate from the cancer itself or the treatment and to promote well-being and emotional health. Here, we discuss how an IM Department can function in a hospital system, particularly with regard to oncology patients, the modalities appropriate for oncology patients, how these modalities can benefit this patient population, and the role of IM in cancer survivorship.

Beneficial Effects of Guided Imagery or Clinical Massage on the Status of Patients in a Progressive Care Unit.

Background: Patients in the progressive care unit typically experience high levels of pain and anxiety and exhibit difficulty sleeping.

Objective: To determine whether either clinical massage or guided imagery could reduce pain and anxiety and improve sleep.

Methods: This study included 288 inpatients on 2 floors of a progressive care unit.

Lymphedema care for the breast cancer patient: an integrative approach.

Lymphedema is a serious complication that involves the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial space. Lymphedema is common after treatment for breast cancer, especially for those patients receiving axillary lymph node dissection. Severe lymphedema is associated with serious morbidities such as swelling, fibrosis, decreased function, reduced range of motion, infection, and pain.

Anxiety reduction in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization following massage and guided imagery.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of massage with or without guided imagery in reducing anxiety prior to cardiac catheterization.

Method: A total of 55 inpatients and outpatients received massage, guided imagery, or massage with guided imagery prior to cardiac catheterization. Self-reported anxiety levels and blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were evaluated in participants and a matched comparison group.