Complementary and Alternative Medicine2025-01-22T17:58:15+00:00

Complementary and Alternative
Medicine (CAM)

Complementary and alternative medicine, also called CAM, involves nontraditional approaches to medicine that help manage a patient’s care.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

Complementary and alternative medicine, also called CAM, involves nontraditional approaches to medicine that help manage a patient’s care.

This field of medicine includes complementary medicine, integrative medicine and alternative medicine. Approximately one-third of all cancer patients participate in CAM or integrative medicine.

CAM may have similarities to holistic medicine, however there are some differences. Many patients have found CAM beneficial when it comes to managing side effects.

This field of medicine includes complementary medicine, integrative medicine and alternative medicine. Approximately one-third of all cancer patients participate in CAM or integrative medicine.

CAM may have similarities to holistic medicine, however there are some differences. Many patients have found CAM beneficial when it comes to managing side effects.

Is it safe?

Complementary and alternative medicine for colon cancer has not been proven to cure cancer. But, some approaches have been found to improve your quality of life.

If you are considering complementary or integrative approaches to help you feel better, talk to your doctor first, as some approaches may interfere with the benefits of chemotherapy or other treatments, and other approaches may be harmful to patients undergoing standard treatment for cancer.

Terms to Know

  • Conventional Medicine: An approach where doctors, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and other professionals treat a disease using medication, radiation, surgery, and/or other treatments. Also called “Western Medicine” or “Mainstream Medicine.”

  • Complementary Medicine: Used together with conventional medicine. It doesn’t replace traditional, science-based treatments, but it’s used alongside them. Many complementary medicine strategies are safe for patients and provide relief and comfort. For example, using aromatherapy to decrease patient discomfort after surgery.

  • Integrative Medicine: Combines treatments from conventional medicine and complementary medicine for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.

  • Alternative Medicine or Holistic Medicine: Used in place of conventional medicine. For example, using a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor.

    No alternative method has been proven safe or effective by conclusive scientific evidence to treat colon or rectal cancer.

Is it safe?

Complementary and alternative medicine for colon cancer has not been proven to cure cancer. But, some approaches have been found to improve your quality of life.

If you are considering complementary or integrative approaches to help you feel better, talk to your doctor first, as some approaches may interfere with the benefits of chemotherapy or other treatments, and other approaches may be harmful to patients undergoing standard treatment for cancer.

Terms to Know

  • Conventional Medicine: An approach where doctors, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and other professionals treat a disease using medication, radiation, surgery, and/or other treatments. Also called “Western Medicine” or “Mainstream Medicine.”

  • Complementary Medicine: Used together with conventional medicine. It doesn’t replace traditional, science-based treatments, but it’s used alongside them. Many complementary medicine strategies are safe for patients and provide relief and comfort. For example, using aromatherapy to decrease patient discomfort after surgery.

  • Integrative Medicine: Combines treatments from conventional medicine and complementary medicine for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.

  • Alternative Medicine or Holistic Medicine: Used in place of conventional medicine. For example, using a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor.

    No alternative method has been proven safe or effective by conclusive scientific evidence to treat colon or rectal cancer.

CAM Approaches

These methods can be safely used and may improve side effects. Remember: All people are different and respond to treatments differently. Before seeking these approaches, talk to your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you!

Acupuncture2024-12-17T22:33:31+00:00

The process of applying thin needles to certain points on the skin to stimulate acupuncture points. Acupuncturists determine the correct acupuncture points for the problem being treated.

This may reduce pain, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, weight loss, anxiety, depression, insomnia, dry mouth, hot flashes, nerve problems, constipation, and diarrhea.

Acupressure2024-12-17T22:33:53+00:00

Involves stimulating acupuncture points on the body using firm finger pressure. Acupressure may reduce pain, anxiety, nausea and vomiting.

Aromatherapy2024-12-17T22:34:17+00:00

The use of essential oils. Smell receptors respond to essential oils by sending chemical messages to the brain, which can affect moods and emotions, leading to reduced stress, and anxiety.

Ayurveda2024-12-17T22:34:43+00:00

Traditional system of medicine of India that emphasizes diet, herbs, exercise, meditation, breathing, and physical therapy.

Biofeedback2024-12-17T22:35:07+00:00

A technique used to control your body’s functions, such as bowel function. Biofeedback therapy may involve the use of electronics to increase your awareness of the functions of your body, or it may encourage you to focus on your body without the use of outside instruments. Regardless, the intent is to make you more aware of how your body is functioning so that you may hopefully gain more control over your body’s systems.

Cannabis (CBD)/ Medical Marijuana2024-12-17T22:35:29+00:00

The use of the cannabis plant to ease cancer-related side effects to reduce pain and nausea and increase appetite.

Chiropractic2024-12-17T22:35:50+00:00

Focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, including pain. The most common procedure is “spinal manipulation” or “adjustment.” Can help alleviate stiff joints, pressure, and increase mobility after surgery.

Herbal medicine2024-12-17T22:36:26+00:00

Use of plants to treat illness and promote health. There are numerous herbal supplements available over the counter, and their efficacy may or may not be supported by research and empirical evidence. Regardless, it is crucial that you speak to your physician before starting any herbal supplement routine, as they may interact negatively with your prescribed treatments. Common supplements include, but are not limited to:

  • St. John’s Wort
  • Ginko Biloba
  • Saw Palmetto
  • Goldenseal
  • Ginseng
Foot Reflexology 2024-12-17T22:36:46+00:00

Involves applying pressure to specific areas on the feet said to correspond to different body parts to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. 

Imagery2024-12-17T22:37:06+00:00

A technique that redirects and relaxes the mind by focusing on an image or idea that is peaceful, safe, and secure. Imagery can reduce feelings of depression, help lower blood pressure, and heart rate.

Massage2024-12-17T22:37:27+00:00

There are many types of massage. Generally, it is described as rubbing/kneading of muscles and joints and is practiced to relieve tension or pain. For cancer patients, massage uses a gentler approach and has many benefits such as improved sleep and immune function, reduced anxiety, pain, fatigue, and nausea.

Meditation2024-12-17T22:37:45+00:00

The practice of bringing awareness to the present moment by focusing on the breath, bodily sensations or repetition of a word or phrase. Meditation can reduce anxiety, depression and stress and improve your quality of life.

Reiki2024-12-17T22:38:05+00:00

A practice that encourages the “flow” of a person’s own positive energy. During a session, the practitioner gently touches or places hands above the patient’s body. This may help reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.

Tai Chi2024-12-17T22:38:27+00:00

An ancient martial art or “moving meditation” where participants focus on deep breathing and precise posture, performing slow, graceful movements. Tai Chi is recommended to patients to reduce stress and anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Yoga2024-12-17T22:38:45+00:00

A practice combining physical postures, meditation and breathing techniques. Yoga for those in cancer treatment tends to be low impact and gentle. Yoga can improve sleep, mood and circulation, reduce stress, and physically strengthen the body.

CAM Approaches

These methods can be safely used and may improve side effects. Remember: All people are different and respond to treatments differently. Before seeking these approaches, talk to your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you!

Acupuncture2024-12-17T22:33:31+00:00

The process of applying thin needles to certain points on the skin to stimulate acupuncture points. Acupuncturists determine the correct acupuncture points for the problem being treated.

This may reduce pain, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, weight loss, anxiety, depression, insomnia, dry mouth, hot flashes, nerve problems, constipation, and diarrhea.

Acupressure2024-12-17T22:33:53+00:00

Involves stimulating acupuncture points on the body using firm finger pressure. Acupressure may reduce pain, anxiety, nausea and vomiting.

Aromatherapy2024-12-17T22:34:17+00:00

The use of essential oils. Smell receptors respond to essential oils by sending chemical messages to the brain, which can affect moods and emotions, leading to reduced stress, and anxiety.

Ayurveda2024-12-17T22:34:43+00:00

Traditional system of medicine of India that emphasizes diet, herbs, exercise, meditation, breathing, and physical therapy.

Biofeedback2024-12-17T22:35:07+00:00

A technique used to control your body’s functions, such as bowel function. Biofeedback therapy may involve the use of electronics to increase your awareness of the functions of your body, or it may encourage you to focus on your body without the use of outside instruments. Regardless, the intent is to make you more aware of how your body is functioning so that you may hopefully gain more control over your body’s systems.

Cannabis (CBD)/ Medical Marijuana2024-12-17T22:35:29+00:00

The use of the cannabis plant to ease cancer-related side effects to reduce pain and nausea and increase appetite.

Chiropractic2024-12-17T22:35:50+00:00

Focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, including pain. The most common procedure is “spinal manipulation” or “adjustment.” Can help alleviate stiff joints, pressure, and increase mobility after surgery.

Herbal medicine2024-12-17T22:36:26+00:00

Use of plants to treat illness and promote health. There are numerous herbal supplements available over the counter, and their efficacy may or may not be supported by research and empirical evidence. Regardless, it is crucial that you speak to your physician before starting any herbal supplement routine, as they may interact negatively with your prescribed treatments. Common supplements include, but are not limited to:

  • St. John’s Wort
  • Ginko Biloba
  • Saw Palmetto
  • Goldenseal
  • Ginseng
Foot Reflexology 2024-12-17T22:36:46+00:00

Involves applying pressure to specific areas on the feet said to correspond to different body parts to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. 

Imagery2024-12-17T22:37:06+00:00

A technique that redirects and relaxes the mind by focusing on an image or idea that is peaceful, safe, and secure. Imagery can reduce feelings of depression, help lower blood pressure, and heart rate.

Massage2024-12-17T22:37:27+00:00

There are many types of massage. Generally, it is described as rubbing/kneading of muscles and joints and is practiced to relieve tension or pain. For cancer patients, massage uses a gentler approach and has many benefits such as improved sleep and immune function, reduced anxiety, pain, fatigue, and nausea.

Meditation2024-12-17T22:37:45+00:00

The practice of bringing awareness to the present moment by focusing on the breath, bodily sensations or repetition of a word or phrase. Meditation can reduce anxiety, depression and stress and improve your quality of life.

Reiki2024-12-17T22:38:05+00:00

A practice that encourages the “flow” of a person’s own positive energy. During a session, the practitioner gently touches or places hands above the patient’s body. This may help reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.

Tai Chi2024-12-17T22:38:27+00:00

An ancient martial art or “moving meditation” where participants focus on deep breathing and precise posture, performing slow, graceful movements. Tai Chi is recommended to patients to reduce stress and anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Yoga2024-12-17T22:38:45+00:00

A practice combining physical postures, meditation and breathing techniques. Yoga for those in cancer treatment tends to be low impact and gentle. Yoga can improve sleep, mood and circulation, reduce stress, and physically strengthen the body.

Approaches to Avoid

There are certain approaches to complementary and alternative medicine for colon cancer that have been shown to be ineffective and even dangerous for colon and rectal cancer patients.
Some of these methods include:

  • Colonic hydrotherapy
  • Chelation therapy
  • Ionic foot baths
  • Restrictive diets
  • Some supplements (talk to your doctor)
  • Expensive treatments with little to no benefit

Anything used IN PLACE OF a curative conventional treatment

Approaches to Avoid

There are certain approaches to complementary and alternative medicine for colon cancer that have been shown to be ineffective and even dangerous for colon and rectal cancer patients.
Some of these methods include:

  • Colonic hydrotherapy
  • Chelation therapy
  • Ionic foot baths
  • Restrictive diets
  • Some supplements (talk to your doctor)
  • Expensive treatments with little to no benefit

Anything used IN PLACE OF a curative conventional treatment

How to Find a CAM Practitioner

Start by asking your doctor, social worker, or member of your care team. Some hospitals have practitioners that work within their system, and some physicians may also implement CAM techniques in their practice.

You can also ask friends and family, or search online. There are professional organizations for CAM practitioners, but it is important to do your own research. Licensing for CAM professionals may vary wildly on a state-by-state basis, and there may be little to no oversight in regard to who gets to call themselves a “CAM practitioner.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides guidance for those interested in learning more about finding a CAM practitioner.

Before scheduling an appointment

Before scheduling an appointment, you want to ensure the practitioner:

  • Is licensed by your state. This ensures they have gone through comprehensive training.

  • Has worked with cancer patients. Consider asking them how they will modify their treatment for you.

  • You and your practitioner should have a detailed discussion about your diagnosis, current treatment, etc.

  • Above all, listen to your gut. If a CAM practitioner makes claims that seem unrealistic, or offers guarantees about your treatment, be wary.

How to Find a CAM Practitioner

Start by asking your doctor, social worker, or member of your care team. Some hospitals have practitioners that work within their system, and some physicians may also implement CAM techniques in their practice.

You can also ask friends and family, or search online. There are professional organizations for CAM practitioners, but it is important to do your own research. Licensing for CAM professionals may vary wildly on a state-by-state basis, and there may be little to no oversight in regard to who gets to call themselves a “CAM practitioner.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides guidance for those interested in learning more about finding a CAM practitioner.

Before scheduling an appointment

Before scheduling an appointment, you want to ensure the practitioner:

  • Is licensed by your state. This ensures they have gone through comprehensive training.

  • Has worked with cancer patients. Consider asking them how they will modify their treatment for you.

  • You and your practitioner should have a detailed discussion about your diagnosis, current treatment, etc.

  • Above all, listen to your gut. If a CAM practitioner makes claims that seem unrealistic, or offers guarantees about your treatment, be wary.