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Alternative Treatment for Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer strikes the cells of the rectum, which is the last segment of the large intestine. Although no alternative treatments can cure rectal cancer, there are therapies that can improve the quality of life of those with the condition and perhaps mitigate some symptoms of the disease. In many cases, people will lapse into a depression or feel extremely distressed when facing the realities of rectal cancer. Alternative treatments may help them regain control.

  1. Naturopathic Medicine

    • Naturopathy is a practice of medicine that uses herbs and other things found in nature to treat illness. Though naturopathic therapies do not make rectal cancer go away, they can help reduce symptoms. Naturopathy combines nutrition, homeopathy and other therapies like traditional Chinese medicine to help decrease symptoms from treatment side effects, maintain a healthy immune system, give more energy, keep metabolism working properly and help with future cancer prevention. When used in conjunction with traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine can help improve the patient's quality of life.

    Art Therapy

    • According to the National Cancer Society, art therapy can help a person with cancer deal with the physical and emotional troubles associated with the disease. Art therapy involves patients redirecting their emotions into art work, music or dance. The National Cancer Society suggests these forms of therapies help cut down levels of anxiety, improve communication skills, shorten hospital stays, assist pain management and lower recovery times.

    Meditation

    • Meditation is a method of concentration designed to relax the body. According the National Institutes of Health, meditation is helpful for dealing with the sleeping problems that arise from distress and managing response to chronic pain. There are various forms of meditation available from yoga to guided imagery to tai chi. Even simple exercise like walking can have the same effects as meditation. According to the American Cancer Society, a study of 90 patients showed that 31 percent of the patients had fewer symptoms of stress and 65 percent had fewer periods of depression after seven weeks of mindful meditation.

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