Traditional medicine typically treats symptoms; holistic practitioners believe your health should encompass your mind and spirit as a whole, taking into account factors like diet, genetics, sleep and stress levels to provide holistic solutions.
At Broadway Wellness PC in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, they utilize both conventional and holistic methods to assist their patients on the path towards living healthier. From acupuncture to herbal medication solutions, Broadway Wellness PC helps find what best meets their patients’ individual needs.
Dr. Jillian Cohen
Jillian Cohen has over two decades of experience as a holistic medical practitioner near me. Specializing in Integrative Medicine, she currently practices at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Riverview Medical Center; accepting Medicare, Aetna, Cigna and Blue Cross plans; as well as offering telehealth appointments. Patients regularly recommend her.
Her practice specializes in mind-body interactions and the value of living an optimal healthy lifestyle, particularly breast cancer prevention. Additionally, she is trained in energy healing techniques and understands the significance of treating each person holistically instead of simply their symptoms.
She currently holds the position of Network Medical Director for Integrative Health & Medicine at Hackensack Meridian health, having completed fellowships at Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at University of Arizona and Weill Cornell’s Integrative Medicine Department. With her passion for understanding patients and their individual health patterns, she can tailor personalized lifestyle solutions that help achieve their personal goals of optimal well-being.
Dr. Ellen Levan
Holistic health differs from conventional medicine in that it aims to prevent disease at its core by treating symptoms as opposed to treating symptoms alone. Holistic care might involve herbal medication or supplements to balance hormones or improve nutrient absorption as well as alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic services – at Broadway Wellness PC we combine both approaches together for maximum effect! Our integrative team approach combines traditional and holistic methods for maximum efficiency.
At Broadway Wellness PC, Dr. Ellen Levan and her team offer holistic health services to help you achieve an overall state of wellbeing. Ranging from nutrition and herbal remedies to genetic testing and acupuncture treatments, Broadway Wellness PC’s team can meet all of your wellness needs – simply call the office or use their one-click booking tool online to begin!
Ellen Levan, MD is a board-certified internal medicine specialist serving Elmwood Park and surrounding New Jersey communities with holistic healthcare. Her approach embraces natural remedies while taking an individualized, patient-centric approach when providing care. Ellen specializes in treating chronic conditions like hypertension/high blood pressure, diabetes and depression while taking Medicare, Aetna and Blue Cross plans as insurance plans as she belongs to American College of Osteopathic Physicians.
Dr. Bojana Jankovic Weatherly
Bojana Jankovic Weatherly, M.D. is a physician with over 16 years of medical experience and holds double board-certifications in internal medicine and integrative medicine. Additionally, she holds certifications in functional medicine and Menopause Society certified practitioner status. Offering an integrative approach that blends Western medicine with complementary modalities she offers a holistic approach to health and wellbeing that complements Western practices with complementary methodologies.
Her approach to integrative medicine emphasizes addressing all aspects of wellness for each individual patient and working as partners on their healing journey, with the ultimate goal being optimal health for every one. She works as partners in this pursuit by gathering a detailed history and reviewing past tests before employing conventional and functional medical tests to ascertain root cause of any illnesses that they encounter.
She possesses comprehensive training in both conventional and functional medicine, which enables her to identify the source of patients’ ailments and develop tailored plans to help meet their health goals. She offers her services both physically in Manhattan as well as remotely through telemedicine visits.
Quantum magnetic resonance machines offer an intuitive view into your body’s energetic state without intrusion. Combining traditional MRI technology with quantum physics principles, this form of machine analyzes energy signatures emitted by organs and systems throughout your body to interpret how their energy signatures change with age.
Non-metallic carbon quantum dots (CQDs) boast amazing magnetic properties and high r1 values, offering an alternative to Gd3+ contrast agents used for MRI and cancer therapy applications. Their magnetic properties could potentially allow an approach that targets only diseased cells while leaving healthy ones untouched.
Quantum Magnetic Resonance Analysis
Quantum mechanics has had an incredible effect on modern healthcare technology, spurring groundbreaking advancements. One such innovative piece of equipment is the Quantum Magnetic Resonance Machine; an unstoppable diagnostic machine set to revolutionise diagnosis procedures worldwide. By understanding its components and following effective use guidelines as well as taking necessary precautions when operating this advanced tool, users can unleash its full potential and access all its potential.
Quantum mechanics allows magnetic dipoles to assume different energy states, identified by their respective angular momentum quantum numbers (omega). When exposed to oscillating fields, their probability of transition between these different energy states increases, leading to faster transition rates; the rate at which this happens is known as its Rabi frequency.
MR methods have proved instrumental in providing quantitative correlations between physiological environment, angiogenesis, vascularization and metabolism of solid tumors. This is particularly the case for MRI which allows unique insight into perfusion/oxygenation relationships. Unfortunately, however, solid tumor physiology can be quite heterogeneous; its vasculature often appears abnormal and its metabolism differs significantly from normal tissues.
An example would be when a tumor has high glucose consumption but low oxygen utilization, or vice versa. When this happens, MR metabolomics is an ideal tool to identify biomarkers and guide therapy; in one recent study it even corroborated that measured pH and oxygen levels correlate with clinical endpoints such as perfusion and necrosis.
Quantum Resonance Analysis (QMRA) is an advanced technology capable of measuring electromagnetic changes within the human energy frequency system and quickly providing comprehensive health evaluations that would otherwise be impossible with conventional diagnostic tools. QMRA offers non-invasive yet safe diagnosis without risk to patient comfort – not to mention remarkable time savings when conducting comprehensive assessments in mere minutes! With its user friendly interface and versatile yet rapid assessment capabilities, Quantum Resonance is an indispensable asset to healthcare providers today.
QMRA 11th Generation
The QMRA 11th Generation is an advanced device that utilizes quantum magnetic resonance technology to conduct comprehensive health assessments. Capable of detecting potential health issues before they manifest into symptoms, as well as uncovering root causes of diseases like diabetes or heart disease, this non-invasive tool provides detailed reports that healthcare providers can interpret. This article explores its features, working mechanism and pricing.
Foodborne pathogen research literature contains whole genome sequencing (WGS) data that can be integrated into quantitative multi-resistance risk assessment models for improved risk evaluation and management strategies. While WGS-based model predictions have yet to be rigorously assessed, incorporating genotypic information requires an in-depth knowledge of pathogen phenotypes vs genomic traits in QMRA models.
In this study, pathogen properties and parameters with high sensitivity and variability were identified to prioritise for inclusion into future QMRA improvements. They were then compared against WGS data on different strains of Lm in order to establish any links between their differences and QMRA predictions.
QMRA 11th Generation uses advanced quantum resonance magnetic analysis to analyze various body parameters, such as cardiovascular health, digestive function and endocrine function. Furthermore, this innovative device can detect chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia and even autoimmune disease – providing personalized health plans designed to enhance quality of life for its users.
The QMRA is an affordable and user-friendly health assessment device that can easily fit into daily routines, such as yoga. Its non-invasive nature makes it particularly appealing for individuals who dislike blood draws or other invasive diagnostic techniques; additionally, this tool is great for pinpointing root causes of ailments, like stress-induced ailments. Furthermore, healthcare providers can take measures to treat them. Therefore, QMRA serves as a powerful way of early disease detection.
QMRA Technology
QMRA is a risk assessment tool used to classify food-borne pathogens based on their human health risks and evaluate interventions that reduce them. It has proven its worth in gauging interventions’ success at decreasing illness after eating contaminated food; however, some key points must be kept in mind when using this tool effectively: Understanding its basic principles including identifying pathogens of concern, calculating exposure dose levels and estimating infection rates can be complex processes requiring expert opinion for use effectively.
WGS data offers the potential to enhance QMRA models through incorporation of genotypic information on pathogens; however, due to its complexity and variance between strains of one pathogen. this process poses considerable difficulties.
This study seeks to identify the most valuable pathogen properties for improving QMRA by using WGS data. Furthermore, it examines how genomic traits could potentially be used to differentiate subtypes of the same pathogen and to detect subtypic differences among them. Finally, this research explores relationships between genotypic characteristics and phenotypic differences and establish the most efficient approach to using genomic information in QMRA.
Studies have demonstrated that the severity of illness caused by foodborne pathogens can be determined by their virulence properties, for instance the Lm bacteria may differ considerably depending on whether their gene for inlA is present or absent, thus impacting QMRA measures significantly. Other important qualities to improve QMRA performance include intestinal colonisation and adhesion capacity.
Quantum magnetic resonance machines are still relatively new to healthcare, yet the technology offers numerous benefits that make it a valuable addition. Quantum magnetic resonance machines can detect subtle abnormalities at their early stages and alert clinicians so they can take timely actions to prevent serious consequences. They also give physicians deeper insights into patients’ physiological state by uncovering hidden complications which might otherwise go undetected.
QMRA Applications
The QMRA is an innovative diagnostic tool that uses quantum magnetic resonance technology to analyze the human body. As an non-invasive and radiation-free alternative to traditional methods such as blood tests or imaging techniques associated with health risks, this device provides more in-depth health status analysis which aids diagnosis and treatment decisions. Furthermore, its ability to detect subtle energy variations which would otherwise go undetected helps doctors pinpoint issues and make better decisions for their patients.
QMRA technology relies on the fact that atomic nuclei vibrate at specific frequencies when exposed to magnetic fields, giving its analyzer access to this information about patient health without resorting to invasive procedures or radiation-emitting devices. As it detects wide variations in health status it also can help detect early disease signs – particularly useful in countries like Nigeria where access to modern medical equipment may be limited.
At present, funding to develop and disseminate QMRA technologies is limited; however there are opportunities for research and development with government agencies (e.g. US Environmental Protection Agency, National Science Foundation and Centers for Disease Control), private industry (e.g. cleaning/disinfection companies involved with safety), water utilities, philanthropic foundations and international partnerships.
Future research can focus on increasing the transparency of QMRA models to facilitate translation and application of their findings for water/food safety assessment, risk communication, policy decisions, etc. This may involve encouraging interdisciplinary research among disciplines like molecular microbiology, immunology, toxicology/dose response/computational biology/epidemiology/sociology etc.
This technology will have many ramifications for global efforts against infectious diseases and other threats to public health. It can improve access to clean drinking water in resource-constrained countries while supporting efforts to lower infectious disease risks worldwide, leading to more effective interventions and solutions against microbial resistance.
Vibration therapy has emerged as an industry standard method to aid weight loss, increase bone density and relieve pain. It’s often employed in fitness facilities and physiotherapy services.
Peter Tass, a neuroscientist from Stanford, has developed and patented gloves which deliver vibrations directly into fingertips and hands for use by Parkinson’s patients, providing relief from tremor and stiffness. His research suggests these gloves help alleviate symptoms associated with Parkinson’s.
Convenient
Have you seen the recent video clip from TODAY show showing Stanford researchers developing gloves which apply vibration to fingertips to alleviate symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease? These devices have proven successful in small trials to combat tremors and stiffness associated with this illness.
Vibrating gloves are designed for everyday wear around the home or while engaging in recreational activities, making them convenient and discreet pain relief options. Not requiring prescription or drug interactions, their rechargeable design makes use simple while being discreet – many even look like regular winter gloves on the outside! Vibrating knee, elbow and calf wraps offer similar pain relief solutions.
Vibrating gloves and wraps use small vibrating motors to temporarily divert pain signals before reaching the brain, while providing mild compression that improves blood circulation and warms joints.
Portable
Vibrating gloves are easily portable, fitting into pockets or bags so they’re always with you when needed. Perfect for relieving everyday aches and pains as well as warming up and aiding recovery after exercise sessions, vibrating gloves can be used anywhere on the body; from hands, knees, back and shoulders.
Your TV may have featured an episode of TODAY that showcased an ingenious vibration-based device developed at Stanford that uses vibration to manage Parkinson’s symptoms. The glove-style device, which transmits vibration directly into fingertips, has proven successful at decreasing tremors and stiffness among PD patients, while researchers are conducting larger clinical trials to see if this approach can also aid with nerve damage and ALS symptoms.
An exciting innovation is the use of haptic feedback to teach motor skills such as typing or musical instrument playing. Researchers have been working on this technology for some time, and now it has come onto the consumer market in the form of vibration therapy gloves that transmit vibrations directly into fingers – helping improve typing speeds or learn a new instrument without expensive classes!
For accurate vibration exposure assessments in workplace environments, it would be beneficial to measure glove vibration transmissibility spectra across three dimensions (x, y and z). This method has been supported by numerous studies (Rakheja et al. 2002 and Dong et al. 2002a) as an approximate way of approximating VR glove performances over an adequately wide frequency band (Glove transmission transfer function test results measured during laboratory tests over such frequency bands.)
This study evaluated four typical vibration-reducing gloves against four typical vibration-reducing tools for attenuating frequency-weighted palm-transmitted vibrations when used with various powered hand tools. According to results obtained, gloves certified under ISO 10819 significantly reduced palm-transmitted frequency-weighted vibrations by anywhere from 5%-58% depending on tool type compared with standard work gloves worn for similar tasks, offering comparable reductions as seen when standard work gloves were worn.
Targeted
Researchers are exploring new methods of mechanical stimulation that mimic electrical bursts in the brain without implanting electrodes. One promising solution is using vibration therapy gloves that strap around the palm of the hand; their vibration creates vibratory bursts through pin-sized holes on plastic pads strapped around index, middle, and pinky fingers for delivery through pinholes on plastic pads strapped around index, middle, and pinky fingers for maximum effectiveness and comfort during daily activities like wrist, tendon, joint and muscle discomfort relief and healing. This device looks like something out of a science fiction movie and can provide relief and healing of pain as well as promote healing for wrist, tendons, joints and muscles afflicted areas in daily activities that helps alleviate pain relief as well as promote healing within wrist, tendons joints and muscles afflicted areas which often involve wrist injuries and pain as well.
Although vibration reduction devices such as gloves have been demonstrated to significantly mitigate tool-induced vibrations on hands, their effectiveness in protecting fingers remains uncertain. To address this issue, a recent study estimated the vibration transmissibility of VR gloves across three orthogonal directions (3-D). With this information at hand, researchers were then able to use VR gloves’ three orthogonal transmissibilities estimates as an indicator for whether they provide sufficient protection of fingers.
Estimations were performed using a transfer function method (Rakheja et al., 2002) which relies on laboratory measurements of VR gloves’ vibration transmissibility across an extensive frequency spectrum and vibration spectra from workplace tools and machines. Estimated glove performances indicate that VR gloves can effectively reduce frequency-weighted vibrations occurring mainly along z-axes or forearm axes while failing to significantly decrease finger-transmitted vibrations.
VR gloves’ effectiveness at mitigating vibration transmission between their fingers and their glove is determined not only by their passive suspension function but also by how they affect hand contact stiffness distribution and grip effort distribution. The passive suspension function appears to have the greatest influence in the vicinity of the fingers, while higher frequencies appear largely determined by handgrip effort influences. Therefore, the effectiveness of VR gloves to reduce vibration transmission between fingertips and hands may exceed expectations. These findings are especially significant as current VR glove testing standards require at least a small reduction in finger-transmitted vibration reduction for anti-vibration gloves to qualify.
No Prescription Required
After suffering a stroke, people can suffer involuntary contractions that twist their hands and arms into fists involuntarily. Treatment options typically include injections of botulinum toxin or strong oral medications to put them to sleep; however engineers at Stanford and Georgia Institute of Technology have developed an inexpensive glove-like wearable device which transmits vibration to fingertips for relief with comparable or better results than injections or drugs.
Have you seen the incredible innovation by neuroscientist Peter Tass and his team, which developed gloves specifically tailored for Parkinson’s Disease that can reduce tremors and stiffness in hands and fingers. Check out his TED talk or TODAY show episode for more info!
Patent-pending Therapy Gloves provide an effective remedy for arthritis pain in hands, knees and elbows. Simply slip on these gloves and press a button to activate their vibrating motors – this may stimulate blood circulation, warm the joints, mask chronic pain signals that travel from hand to brain as well as mask them altogether! These no prescription gloves can be used as often as needed at home, work or during favorite activities without an ongoing prescription – they recharge quickly in minutes with high frequency mode running for 45 min on high frequency mode!
Laser technology was used to successfully regenerate a dog’s tooth using quantum mechanics – setting a precedent and opening up new avenues in biology known as Linguistic-wave genetics.
Russian scientists recently discovered that living DNA substance responds strongly to language-modulated light rays and radio waves of specific frequencies; this explains why affirmations, autogenous training and hypnosis have such significant impacts.
What is Wavegenetics?
Researchers in Russia have discovered that our human genetic apparatus – 99 percent of our genes – operates at wave level. This allows esoteric and spiritual teachers to program our genetic code through frequency, words, thoughts and emotions; now this knowledge can be scientifically confirmed and explained using Lingvistiko-Wave Genetics or Wave Genetics which allows individuals to communicate directly with their DNA by programming it by conscious communication; this method could change biology and quantum physics forever!
Regeneration of the Dog’s Tooth
Regeneration of a dog tooth using the linguistic-wave genetics method set a precedent for its application. Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MMSCs) from his dog were exposed to Modulated Broadband Electromagnetic Radiation (MBER), synthesized from human tooth rudiments removed through extraction, before transplantation into an area on his right upper jaw for 9 months before resulting in new tooth growth.
This result corroborates what esoteric and spiritual teachers have long observed: that words and thoughts can program our bodies – all that’s required to achieve this effect is finding the appropriate frequency. Our work on Linguistic-Wave Genetics opened a whole new direction of biology. Currently we’re undertaking more experiments that demonstrate this phenomenon of quantum genetic programming of cells.
Quantum Programming of Stem Cells
The wave function of DNA provides a highly efficient coding mechanism. It allows us to encode messages as DNA molecules that carry instructions for building proteins, transmitting those messages through to other cells for further instructions – not limited to being transmitted within one cell but moving throughout our bodies at great distance.
Researchers have devised an effective technique for programming DNA using frequency and intention. Scientists have proven this form of programming works, though the process requires considerable maturity. Esoteric and spiritual teachers have known of this for some time; now it has been scientifically confirmed.
There remains much work to do in this area, both to understand genetic code better and direct stem cells where needed – this requires developing an in-depth knowledge of quantum nature of cells and interactions among them.
One approach is nanotechnologies. A number of groups have already utilized nanoparticles as delivery vehicles of genes into stem cells and to regulate their differentiation, including carbon nanotubes with various functional groups that target perinuclear regions even under endocytosis-inhibiting conditions (Kostarelos et al. 2007). Furthermore, apatite nanoparticles coated electrostatically with fibronectin or E-cadherin have proven highly efficient as gene transfection systems for embryonic stem cells (Kutsuzawa et al. 2006).
Nanotechnologies are being created to analyze transplanted stem cell fates in vivo. Magnetic resonance imaging provides a noninvasive tool for tracking migration, differentiation and regenerative potential of transplanted cells marked with fluorescent dyes such as thymidine analogs or transfected with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Another option involves nanoscale-engineered substrates or scaffolds designed to mimic biomimetic environments to direct stem cell behavior.
Quantum computers offer another approach for cancer detection: using genomic sequencing data collected via blood tests to analyze for mutations linked to cancer. Many mutations could contribute to its development; quantum computers could learn to recognize certain variants that require further examination and flag them for further study. As part of a routine check-up procedure in future years, each individual would be provided their DNA profile read every month via blood testing; then distant quantum computers would scan this information looking for harmful mutations that might lead to cancer development.
Regeneration of the Diabetic Foot
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an epidemic worldwide and its global epidemic causes diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), a serious complication with serious adverse outcomes including infections, hospitalization and lower extremity amputations. Diabetic patients have an estimated 15% lifetime risk of DFUs developing; its pathophysiology involves peripheral neuropathy, trauma and hindered microvascular circulation as causes.
DFU are associated with high medical care costs and can have devastating outcomes in up to half of cases, often including lower extremity amputation or even death. Therefore, it is crucial that adjunctive therapies can accelerate wound closure in diabetic patients.
In this study, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) was evaluated in terms of its ability to promote healing of DFU. A literature search was performed using keywords related to extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and DFU in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register databases. ESWT is a noninvasive therapeutic approach that uses high-energy focused waves of mechanical energy to promote tissue repair and regeneration. Results demonstrated that ESWT treatment was successful in reducing the size and improving wound stability of DFU, speeding healing time and speeding recovery rate of DFU. Regenerative effects were further demonstrated through multipotent stem cell stimulation. Esoteric and spiritual teachers have long known that our bodies can be programmed through language, words and thought; now science has established this as fact. Linguistic Wave Genetics shows us that through appropriate frequency communication with DNA we can alter its behavior to our desired outcome.
Alternative cancer therapies without scientific backing may be harmful, interfering with conventional cancer treatments and possibly leading to serious side effects.
Traditional medicine is grounded in science and evaluation. Less research has been done into alternative approaches; some alternative therapies have shown promise as viable options that can complement conventional treatments.
Holistic healing
Holistic healing is a type of health care that addresses all aspects of health in an integrated manner, using various healing practices to address illness at its source rather than simply masking its symptoms. Holistic medicine employs holistic doctors with both medical degrees as well as degrees in various forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage therapy or meditation as complementary approaches.
Holistic medicine differs from Western medicine in its focus on holistic treatments that focus on treating all aspects of a person, from their psychological, social, and spiritual wellbeing to disease underlying causes and stressors. Holistic practitioners believe all parts of our bodies are interdependent – if one aspect goes out of balance it affects other parts as well. Furthermore, holistic practitioners believe living a healthy lifestyle is ultimately best medicine.
holistic healing offers many advantages, yet it is essential that individuals consult a qualified healthcare provider prior to beginning any alternative therapies or practices. Unqualified practitioners could potentially do more harm than good and some alternative therapies could interfere with medications or pose potential dangers.
An integrative diet and nutrition approach includes balancing food groups, physical exercise, mental wellbeing, spirituality and meditation practices to create optimal wellness for an individual’s physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being. Furthermore, holistic approaches provide personalized analyses of individual’s needs, goal setting and resources; fitness trackers, meditation apps or gratitude journals could all be added for further assistance if necessary. However, this should not be taken as an excuse to use alternative therapies instead of traditional medical care; even if someone had success using an alternative therapy for one minor condition they could extrapolate this success into treating more serious conditions if successful alternative therapy had success for one condition than would normally expected – for instance if someone had success using alternative therapy for instance in treating minor symptoms this could result in them thinking this approach would work just fine when dealing with more serious conditions if applied appropriately.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda, which derives its name from Sanskrit words for life and knowledge respectively, is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems. Originating over 5,000 years ago in India and founded on a belief that health depends on maintaining balance among mind, body and spirit, Ayurveda emphasizes preventive strategies as a key part of health management.
A practitioner might recommend diet changes, herbal medications, massage therapies and other forms of Ayurved medicine as treatment. Studies suggest some Ayurvedic treatments can reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis and symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes; however, results have been mixed or small; moreover some Ayurvedic preparations contain dangerous amounts of lead mercury or arsenic that should not be consumed.
Many individuals turn to Ayurved practitioners for weight loss, stress reduction, sleep problems and chronic conditions like arthritis and asthma. Because the practice is unregulated in the US, it’s essential that individuals search out an authorized practitioner. According to The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health’s recommendations, seeking out someone trained specifically in massage therapy or another form of Ayurved treatment is recommended.
Your healthcare provider should know about any complementary and integrative medicine you are taking, including Ayurved treatments. Certain herbs could interact with cancer drugs or radiotherapy and cause dangerous side effects, including reduced blood cell counts. Other Ayurvedic practices, like bloodletting and forced vomiting, could also pose health risks; for instance removing too much blood could decrease breathing ability or cause fatigue; bloodletting also increases infection risks – something particularly troubling if someone with cancer already has low blood cell counts.
Biologically based therapies
Biologically-based therapies (CAM) fall under a subcategory known as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and include herbal medicine, animal-derived products and nutritional supplements. Available as powders, capsules, tablets, teas and syrups they’re often used both to promote wellness and treat illness based on belief of “vitalism”. Unfortunately these treatments don’t yet meet scientific evidence standards as rigorously as synthetic drugs do regulated.
While herbal and nutritional supplements have generally shown positive effects in cell culture or animal studies, there is much less rigorous research on their long-term impact on human patients. Furthermore, numerous reports of adverse reactions in those taking such therapies exist and interactions between herbal therapies and prescription medicines can often prove problematic.
Health care professionals must remain aware of what alternative therapies their clients are utilizing, as well as any possible interactions between herbal remedies and prescribed medications. Clients should also adopt a skeptical stance towards complementary and alternative medicine practices and research the associated costs, benefits and risks before making their choice to utilize any form of CAM. In some instances, this may mean simply avoiding certain herbs or supplements known to interact with specific medications – for instance amygdalin is commonly found in fruit pits like those of apricots but should be avoided by cancer patients as its metabolization by liver produces cyanide that leads to blue skin symptoms as a side effect.
Manipulative and body-based methods
These therapies involve touching or moving parts of the body. Examples include acupuncture, acupressure and massage therapy; people living with cancer frequently utilize these techniques to ease symptoms associated with disease and treatment such as pain or fatigue, while helping manage stress more easily. It’s essential that before trying these types of therapies that you consult your healthcare team as they will help find practitioners experienced working with cancer patients who provide proper draping practices.
Alternative therapies often believe that mind and spirit have an effect on physical state, using techniques such as hypnotherapy and meditation for healing. These less costly forms of treatment are more widely accessible in rural communities that don’t have access to conventional medical solutions than more urbanized forms. They have become especially popular among BIPOC communities who face barriers when seeking care in more urban settings such as Latin America where discrimination hinders their access.
While research supports numerous complementary therapies, some doctors remain wary about recommending them due to a lack of rigorous testing or scientific basis for them. Furthermore, using such methods may impede patient participation in clinical trials.
Alternative therapies may be combined with treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy to ensure an integrated plan. When considering any supplements or alternative therapies, always consult a health care professional first – this ensures they won’t interfere with your current treatment plan.
Mind-body techniques
Mind-body techniques are practices designed to strengthen the connection between your brain, spirit and emotions and your attention and resilience. Examples include breathing exercises, meditation, yoga and tai chi. Mind-body techniques may help relieve stress and anxiety as well as reduce heart rate and blood pressure; additionally they may help you relax more deeply into restful sleep, increasing overall quality of life.
Mind-body practice helps your brain form new neural pathways to help manage stress, emotion and physical pain more effectively. Over time, these skills can be reinforced for lasting benefits known as neuroplasticity – for instance a person who loses the use of an arm due to stroke can retrain their brain to reconstruct new neurological pathways to help move it again.
Research investigating mindfulness meditation, yoga and tai-chi/qi-gong in cancer patient populations demonstrates positive results related to improved mood, sleep quality and physical functioning. Furthermore, these practices present minimal risks that can easily be integrated into cancer care plans.
Resistance to mind-body practice can be common for patients unfamiliar with these techniques. One effective approach for combatting this resistance is taking an empathic stance and offering opportunities for open dialogue. Healthcare providers should collaborate on providing patient-centric care strategies which incorporate mind-body therapies.
A recent meta-analysis of mind-body therapies discovered that both seated meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) were associated with improvements in psychological outcomes as well as both systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduction, both safely for individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, healthcare professionals should encourage patients to incorporate these practices as part of a holistic healing approach.
