Alternative Therapy Overview of Mesothelioma

* Alternative Therapy Overview

    Those who are affected by asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis andmesothelioma are no longer limited to conventional medical treatments such as surgery and pain relief medications.

    The following types of complementary and alternative therapies can be used by patients coping with asbestos-induced diseases as a form of pain management, to improve general health, and to provide relief from disease symptoms.

    These types of treatment options cannot cure asbestos-related illnesses, but can certainly help patients live more comfortably by providing relief from pain and stress.

Complementary Versus Alternative Therapy

    Complementary and alternative medicine are terms that become all too familiar to patients trying unconventional forms of treatment for asbestos-related cancers. For information about specific alternative treatments, please refer to Alternative Therapy Overview.

    Many complementary and alternative treatments were once scoffed by the medical industry, but some treatments (such as acupuncture) are now more widely respected and commonly used in medicine. Acupuncture is even covered for certain purposes by many insurance companies. Please see Acupuncture for more information about this type of complementary therapy.

    Though these terms refer to the same types of therapies, they have different connotations. Alternative therapy is an all-encompassing term that classifies unconventional forms of therapy, whereas complementary therapy refers to the use of multiple therapies (both conventional and alternative) to treat patients.

Alternative Therapy Becomes Complementary

    In the past, unconventional medical treatments such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and massage have been referred to as alternative treatments because they were used as alternatives to conventional medical treatments prescribed by doctors.

    In general, traditional doctors did not consider prescribing these types of treatments for their patients. During the 1970s and 1980s it was almost unheard of for any doctor to recommend a course of acupuncture, or suggest their patient see a nutritionist as part of medical treatment. These types of treatment options were not considered to be effective by the medical industry, and they were largely ignored by most doctors.

    Throughout the 1990s, a subtle shift in mainstream medical thinking began to change the way both doctors and patients perceived these alternative treatments. As a result, people began to use these treatments more often, and more doctors began to prescribe certain types of alternative treatments. Treatments such as acupuncture and chiropractory have become much more mainstream in the last decade or two. Some therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, that were once considered to be alternative are even part of conventional medicine in the United States.

    With this shift in medical treatment, it has become more appropriate to refer to these types of treatments as complementary rather than alternative for the simple reason that a patient is more likely to receive an alternative treatment to complement conventional medical treatment. Conventional and unconventional medical therapies are no longer mutually exclusive; they work with one another and complement one another - hence the term complementary.

    It is important to note that while the two terms may often be interchangeable, there is still one specific difference between complementary and alternative therapies. Complementary medicine or therapy refers to alternative treatments being used in addition to conventional medical treatment, while alternative medicine or therapy refers to unconventional treatments being used instead of conventional medical treatment.

What Makes Complementary and Alternative Medicine Different?

    Complementary and alternative treatments differ from conventional treatments in a multitude of ways. One of the very obvious differences is simply that many complementary treatments are not well known to the general public. For example, most people are not familiar with treatments such as TENS therapy, but this type of treatment is actually FDA-approved, has been prescribed by doctors for several decades, and is covered by many insurance companies. For more information about this type of treatment, please see TENS Therapy.

    Another major difference between conventional and unconventional treatments is a philosophical approach and context. Complementary and alternative therapies tend to use an approach, referred to as "holistic," to treat patients. Instead of treating a particular aspect of a patient's symptoms, a complementary or alternative therapy is more likely to treat the whole person.

    For example, a medical doctor may prescribe a course of pain-relieving drugs for a person who is experiencing back pain. A complementary or alternative medical practitioner might recommend a combination of acupuncture, exercise, dietary changes, herbal preparations, massage, and relaxation techniques. With complementary and alternative therapy, the emphasis is on treating the whole person, and on emphasizing the body's own ability to repair itself under the right conditions.

    Interestingly, many conventional medical doctors are becoming more holistic in their approach. An example of this is that doctors often treat diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes not only with medication, but also by providing their patients with information and suggestions on lifestyle changes they can make to improve their health and medical condition.

Some Common Uses for Complementary Therapy

    Complementary and alternative therapies are often used as palliative treatments to manage chronic pain and relieve both physical and psychological symptoms of terminal illness. A person who is considering these types of therapies has numerous options, including acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy, TENS therapy, massage, yoga, naturopathy, and pet therapy.

    In the treatment of asbestos-related diseases, acupuncture and massage therapy can be used to relieve pain, stress, and anxiety. Acupuncture is even useful for people withasbestosis, who find that this type of treatment reduces inflammation and allows them to breathe more easily.

- Acupuncture

    Acupuncture is one of the most widely-accepted alternative therapies in use today, to the extent that many insurance companies provide coverage for this type of treatment. Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely fine needles into pressure points at clearly defined locations on the skin to improve the balance and flow of factors referred to as Yin, Yang, Qi and Blood in traditional Chinese medicine. This type of treatment can provide relief from chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and stress, and is one of the most common alternative treatments used by those with asbestosis. Please see Acupuncture for more information about this type of therapy.

Acupuncture - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Many of those who experience symptoms such as pain, stress and anxiety try to find relief by means of alternative and complementary treatments. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that has become more widely respected in recent years, even to the extent that many insurance companies now cover acupuncture treatment.

Acupuncture in History

    Acupuncture is known to have been practiced as early as the Stone Age. Many ancient artifacts relating to acupuncture have been discovered in locations such as Inner Mongolia, dating back as far as 3,000 B.C. The way in which this technique was discovered or developed is not well-known. One legend states that Chinese soldiers who received arrow wounds in battle experienced relief from pain in other parts of the body, prompting further research and experimentation into these observations.

    The practice of acupuncture is first described in a book known as "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine," a medical text compiled approximately around 305-204 B.C. Artifacts such as needle-sharp stones, called Bian stones, point to the use of acupuncture and other earlier techniques (such as bloodletting) for medical purposes.

    Acupuncture first saw a rise in popularity in America in the 1970s. Throughout the '70s, Americans who visited China brought back with them reports of patients who underwent surgery with only acupuncture used as anesthesia. These reports inspired many of those seeking relief from pain and other maladies to try acupuncture. This treatment has progressively risen in popularity and has gained widespread acceptance in the medical community. Acupuncture is used for a wide variety of conditions, including headaches, back pain, and infertility.

Theory of Acupuncture

    The foundational theory of acupuncture is based on a principle that involves treating the entire body rather than just the affected organ or area. According to this set of theories, diseases are caused by an imbalance of factors called Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood. In this practice, treating disease involves manipulation of the body to improve balance between these four factors.

    Acupuncture employs the use of fine needles into the body's defined 'pressure points' to improve the flow of the four factors in the body, and improve the body's balance and harmony. There are almost four hundred different pressure points located all over the body. The pressure points that are stimulated during an acupuncture session may not be in the area where a patient feels pain. For example, a patient who is receiving acupuncture treatment for headaches may actually be treated in the webbing between the thumb and palm.

    Many scientific theories have been proposed to account for how acupuncture works in the body. There is no doubt that it does provide symptomatic relief of pain, stress, and anxiety. One theory proposes that it is possible to modify the transmission of pain at many different sites in the body. Another is that acupuncture causes the release of hormones called endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are known to block pain and produce mild feelings of euphoria - these are what kick in during exercise, and are responsible for the so-called 'natural high' that many endurance athletes feel during events.

Acupuncture for the Treatment of Asbestos-Related Diseases

    When it comes to the treatment of asbestos-related cancers, acupuncture is one of the most widely accepted alternative therapies. Those coping with asbestos-related diseases, such asasbestosis and mesothelioma, can use acupuncture to treat symptoms of pain, stress, and anxiety. Many patients with asbestosis who have tried acupuncture say the treatment helps relieve pain and makes breathing much easier.

    During an acupuncture consultation, an acupuncturist asks their patient a number of questions relating to their health and symptoms. They also inspect certain points of the body, such as the face, mouth, and specific acupuncture points, to determine the best course of treatment. This initial examination allows the acupuncturist to determine which pressure points must be manipulated for the patient to experience relief from their symptoms.

    During the actual treatment, very thin, sterilized needles are inserted into each pressure point. Once all needles are inserted, the patient may be left to rest for several minutes, or up to half an hour, before the needles are removed.

    Acupuncture treatments are particularly desirable because when practiced by a skilled acupuncturist, there are virtually no harmful side effects in most cases. Around 3 percent of patients may experience some minor bleeding at points where needles were inserted. Around 2 percent of patients may experience some bruising at the site, while approximately 1 percent may experience some dizziness (usually as a result of anxiety relating to the treatment). It has been advised that people with bleeding disorders and those taking blood thinners should avoid acupuncture. In addition, those with infusion pumps, cardiac pacemakers, or any other electrical device are advised to avoid electroacupuncture.

 - Aromatherapy

    Aromatherapy is the practice of using fragrance to improve physical and psychological well-being. Fragrances are applied in liquids called essential oils, which are distilled and highly concentrated plant-based oils. These are combined and used by aromatherapists to provide pain relief, symptomatic relief and improve general well-being for patients. Aromatherapy may often be combined with massage therapy, as patients can receive a massage with carrier oils that have been combined with small amounts of essential oil fragrances.

Aromatherapy - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    In recent years, alternative medical therapies are becoming more and more popular in Western health care. One such alternative therapy is called aromatherapy. This medical technique uses fragrances in oils, lotions, and other substances to heal and prevent health problems.

    Aromatherapy starts with essential oils, which can be used alone for a single scent or combined with others. There are a number of application methods available, which can be performed at home or by a professional. Most specialty stores and aromatherapy professionals offer more than one of the following options:

• Massage
• Lotions and Creams
• Baths
• Inhalants
• Compresses

    Essential oils are highly concentrated oils from various plants. The simple inhalation of essential oils brings both physical and mental benefits. Those suffering from serious medical conditions should only use aromatherapy under the care of a trained professional, as combining the wrong essential oils can produce adverse side effects or medical problems.

    Aromatherapists are knowledgeable in aromatherapy techniques and can be a valuable resource. They begin the process by mixing an essential oil with a carrier oil. Remember that essential oils are extremely concentrated, thus applying them directly to the skin or using too much for inhaled therapy can be harmful. There are a number of carrier oils to consider, which act as a neutral base that dilutes essential oils. These include almond oil, grape seed oil, and peanut oil. An aromatherapy therapist can help select the right carrier oil according to other oils being used and possible allergies.

    Essential oils can be used one at a time, but many therapists will combine oils using specific recipes. Essential oils must be mixed in appropriate concentrations and with the right oils to create a beneficial reaction.

    There are seven basic types of essential oils, with dozens of varieties within each group. These groups are:

• Alcohols: used for healing and uplifting the spirit
• Aldehydes: used for sedation
• Esters: used for sedation and fighting viruses (these are usually the most pleasant smells, which are found in many bath products)
• Ketones: used to help with congestion problems
• Monoterpenes: used to prevent viruses and bacterial problems
• Oxides: used to prevent bacterial problems
• Phenols: used for stimulation

    There are hundreds of essential oils available to promote health and cure current medical problems. Essential oils may be made from plants, but not all essential oils are safe. It is important for the following essential oils to be used sparingly and by a licensed practitioner:

• Bitter Almond
• Sweet Birch
• Calamus
• Camphor
• Garlic
• Horseradish
• Wormwood
• Wintergreen
• Sassafras
• Onion
• Rue
• Mustard
• Spanish Broom
• Melilotus

    Aromatherapy appeals to the human sense of smell, which is strongly linked to emotional centers in the brain. Aromatherapists have studied not only conventional scents known to achieve a certain state of mind (such as lavender as a calming agent), but have also studied unconventional scents and scent combinations that can produce alertness, aggression, happiness, and so forth.

    Patients coping with various serious diseases can use aromatherapy to help address the illness itself, as well as aid in relaxation. For example, a massage with essential oils can help the oils travel directly to the affected organs or area of pain. Throughout treatment, the aromas help patients become more relaxed, alert, and mentally able to fight any disease.

    Aromatherapy was arguably once a lost art, known only to a select few who studied alternative medicine. Today, many doctors are acknowledging the benefits of aromatherapy and some are even becoming licensed professionals to extend the benefits to their patients.

    Of course, this treatment is not for everyone. Alternative medicines are still highly criticized by those who solely believe in conventional medical treatments. It is important for patients to be aware of all available treatment options. Though researchers are still studying the effects of essential oils on the body, promising results in small-scale studies have been recorded. Essential oils should not be injested since many of them can be poisonous. Certian oils may cause sensitization (allergy caused by the oil), and may cause irritation if applied undiluted. Some oils have reportedly caused headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions.

 - Chiropractic Care

    A number of cancer patients look to chiropractice care as a form of alternative medicine to compliment their traditional medical treatments. Chiropractic care traditionally aims to alleviate pain and improve mobility through various therapies such as spinal adjustment, physical therapy, massage, ultrasounds, specific exercises and stretching movements, and electrical muscle stimulation (such as TENS therapy). Some cancer patients have turned to chiropractic care to help manage pain or relieve headaches, body tension and stress, and some have even reported an improved quality of life following treatment.

Chiropractic Care - Alternative Treatments

    Chiropractic care is administered to treat and prevent pain and disorders pertaining to the musculoskeletal system that controls the body’s movement, including the spine. Chiropractic care is often sought as a form of alternative medicine and complementary care to coincide with traditional medical treatments.

    Chiropractors seek to restore mobility and alleviate pain through a variety of different treatments including spinal adjustment, massage, stretching movements, ultrasound, specific exercises and electrical muscle stimulation.

    The use of chiropractic care has been found in recordings from China and Greece dating back to 2700 B.C. and 1500  B.C. Chiropractic care became utilized in the United States in the late 19th century and gained respect throughout the 20th century as patients and studies supported the benefits of this form of therapy.

Chiropractic Care for Cancer Patients

    Cancer patients may elect to visit a chiropractor as part of their treatment regimen. According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractic doctors “have a deep respect for the human body's ability to heal itself without the use of surgery or medication. These doctors devote careful attention to the biomechanics, structure and function of the spine, its effects on the musculoskeletal and neurological systems, and the role played by the proper function of these systems in the preservation and restoration of health. A doctor of chiropractic is one who is involved in the treatment and prevention of disease, as well as the promotion of public health, and a wellness approach to patient healthcare.”

    Cancer patients have included chiropractic care in their course of treatment to help control pain and alleviate headaches, tension and stress.  Patients interested in alternative treatment, who strongly believe in the body’s ability to heal itself, may find chiropractic care particularly appealing. Alleviating severe headaches and movement pains during cancer treatment may make the treatment process more comfortable for cancer patients, including those batting mesothelioma.

    Two studies published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeuticsexamined the cases of two patients combating cancer. A 57-year-old man diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer experienced significant pain relief and was able to reduce the amount of medication needed following chiropractic care. He also reported an increase in his quality of life during his journey with the cancer following a visit to a chiropractor.

    A 54-year-old man diagnosed with lung cancer (a cancer often related to asbestos exposure) began seeing a chiropractor after experiencing little pain relief one year after he underwentsurgery to combat his cancer. The man experienced pain relief immediately after beginning chiropractic care and discontinued use of all pain medications after two visits to his chiropractor. The Journal noted, “These clinical examples offer two specific instances of how chiropractic may improve the quality of a cancer patient’s life.”

 - Massage

    Massage therapy provides a number of important health benefits - it promotes blood and lymphatic flow and improves circulation, and helps to improve muscle tension. Massage also stimulates the nervous and digestive systems, and can relieve chronic pain and improve skin function. Commonly used as a stress relief treatment, many patients find that massage can reduce anxiety and feelings of stress, as well as help manage chronic pain. Please seeMassage for more information about this type of therapy.

Massage - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Though some perceive massage as a decadent way of relaxing, massage therapy is actually a legitimate form of medical treatment. This holistic form of alternative therapy focuses on preventative health as well as healing present medical issues.

    There are a number of health benefits associated with massage. First and foremost, this form of treatment promotes healthy blood flow. Massage helps blood vessels dilate, which increases and promotes blood flow. In addition, massage also helps to relieve muscle tension. This treatment can help to loosen muscles that are tense and tight, as well as stimulate muscles that are weak, which makes massage therapy a great option for those with chronic muscle problems.

    Massage can help with quite a few other conditions as well. This therapy also stimulates the nervous system, improves skin function, and helps relieve chronic pain. Massage is also known to benefit the digestive system by means of increasing the body's production of gastric juices and saliva, which promotes healthy digestion.

    Massage is beneficial for many patients because it is fully compatible with other treatment options, including conventional and alternative. For example, combining massage with the use of essential oils adds the benefits of aromatherapy.

    A good massage therapist will use long, smooth strokes, medium, deep strokes and kneading, deep-tissue pressure strokes, cupping, and other types of massaging techniques. Therapists determine which techniques to use depending upon the patient and the state of their condition, which will vary from session to session.

    There are dozens of categories of massage. Doctors can help a patient find a practitioner that specializes in the type of massage best used for the patient's condition. The following include the most commonly used types of massage:

• Swedish Massage: This type of massage can be used just for relaxation and can be used in combination with other types of massage for medicinal purposes.
• Deep Tissue Massage: A deep tissue massage is more intense than a Swedish massage, and it is common to feel sore after a deep tissue massage. This kind of massage helps deep muscle and pain problems.
• Shiatsu: This Japanese form of massage is based on rhythm for relaxation. Traditional pressure points also used by acupuncturists are stimulated to increase energy flow.
• Sports Massage: Those involved in sports or elevated physical activity can benefit from regular sports massages, which help prevent injury during game play or training. It is similar to a Swedish massage, but meant to strengthen and stimulate, rather than relax.

    There are a number of other massage techniques to try as well, including aromatherapy massage, cupping, hot stone massage, reflexology, and Thai massage. Before committing to a certain therapy session, take some time to consult with the massage therapist to ensure the techniques used will be right for the condition being treated.

    Practically everyone can benefit from massage, whether to help with medical conditions or just to live a healthier, more stress-free life. This applies to senior citizens, expecting mothers, cancer patients, and others who may be concerned about traditional medical treatments. However, certain conditions may be worsened by deep pressure or physical manipulation. These include osteoporosis and other bone diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, spine injuries, and cancer that has metastasized to the bone. Those that have undergone radiation may experience discomfort on the treatment area if massaged. The American Cancer Society warns those with cancer or chronic conditions such as heart disease should talk with their doctor before getting a massage (or any other therapy that manipulates joints and muscles).

 - Meditation

    Meditation has long been known as an excellent way of reducing feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. Currently, meditation is also believed to help manage pain and other disease symptoms. Many people with cancer who add meditation to their treatment program find the practice helps relieve pain, stress and anxiety. Some studies have even indicated that meditation may be able to slow tumor growth and improve patient prognosis. For more information, please see Meditation.

Meditation - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Proponents of meditation state it can help with not just spiritual and emotional problems, but physical ones as well. This is based on the idea that meditation works with the body's basic energy processes. Adding meditation to traditional cancer treatment has produced excellent results. Meditation reduces feelings of depression, anxiety, and actual discomfort. Additionally, studies claim that meditation lowers tumor growth by as much as 10 percent. Meditation is also known to prolong survival rates while improving quality of life. Presently, meditation is utilized in countless medical facilities to help cancer patients manage disease by reducing grief and anger. It also teaches those in physical pain how to cope with the extreme discomfort.

Working Principles of Meditation

    Many types of meditation exist throughout the world, and it takes advanced knowledge and experience to determine which kind is beneficial for various physical conditions. Experts in the field have discovered the best form of meditation for those suffering with cancer involves meditation that is considered "empty" and does not involve imagery.

    "Empty" meditation works on the basis of a person letting go of thoughts to achieve a degree of mental emptiness, and the corresponding stillness allows the body's energy to rise and battle illness. It is further accepted that, in conjunction with the peacefulness of the meditation experience, a person's life force is also activated. This can be readily seen in acupuncture, which moves the chi when obstructed.

    Cancer patients suffer from this affliction, but when their chi travels freely after intense meditation, they can put themselves back onto the road to health. This is accomplished through the release of thoughts or habits that can free up energy to produce healing powers. The body's natural flow of energy, though previously restrained, assumes normality. This reverses the damage of practices which previously inhibited the body's normal energy rhythms.

Other Types of Meditation

    Often, people think meditation must be visual, as is the case with guided imagery practice. However, researchers have found the best choice for cancer patients is to employ meditation based on little to no conscious brain activity, for at least 20 sessions. But there are other forms to try as well. One Buddhist cancer meditation method is to quiet the body and breathing, and then visualize offering one's dirty flesh to hungry beings. After picturing the flesh gone and consumed, visualization focuses on the body as a white skeleton turning into dust and dissolving into nothingness. After reaching that point, the patient should let go of all thoughts and stay at that level of emptiness for as long as possible. A similar technique involves the imagery of one's body burning, allowing the person to become only a light that slowly becomes emptiness. Any meditation that is based on the absence of discriminative thought is powerfully healing and more beneficial than positive thinking alone. Music meditation and the application of breathing techniques can also aid in the emotional and psychological healing process.

Can Meditation Be Harmful?

    There should be nothing harmful or dangerous in meditation that is followed under the guidance of an established teacher, or even with professional step-by-step instructions. Becoming conscious of breathing and thoughts, while following medication, diet, and exercise regimens, is an optimum treatment plan. Including meditation in daily life can offer relief from many ailments, such as infertility, skin diseases, high blood pressure, fatigue, anxiety, and stress. It is believed that health benefits result from intentional mental processes affecting brain circuitry. Meditation is calming and cleansing, and cannot hurt the individual practicing. Since every patient's case is different, it is important to discuss all treatment options with a doctor. A medical professional may be able to provide referrals to specialized cancer meditation practices.

 - Supplements

    Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino acids. Vitamins, minerals and amino acids are all needed by the body to carry out essential life functions, and supplements can help provide necessary chemicals when diet alone cannot. Many herbs can help treat diseases and conditions, as well as provide symptomatic relief. For example, flaxseed, ginseng and garlic are all known to reduce blood pressure.

    When it comes to supplements, it's very important to tell your doctor about every type of supplement you are taking, because they can affect how well prescription medications work. Some supplements can even be dangerous when taken in conjunction with certain prescription medications. Please see Supplements for further information about this type of therapy.

Supplements - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Dietary supplements are products that contain vitamins, minerals, herbs or amino acids. Supplements are most often used in tablet or capsule form, but can also be found in powder or liquid form. These are not meant to be used as a replacement for food, but as the name implies, supplements meant to be used as a supplement to healthy meals. Supplements have long been used to promote health, but research is underway to determine if this alternative form of treatment is viable as a replacement to conventional medicine.

    It is very important to talk to a doctor or another medical professional about supplements. Many supplements are often marketed as "natural" or "organic," but that does not guarantee safety. There are real consequences for taking too many supplements, taking ones that do not work with individual diet, or taking ones that conflict with other medical treatments.

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates supplements on the market. However, these supplements are not regulated with the same strict rules used for the regulation of conventional medication and prescriptions. Instead, they are regulated in the same way that foods are regulated. Companies do not have to prove the supplement is safe or effective. In addition, the FDA does not regulate consistency or quality. What is on the label may not necessarily be what is being ingested.

    Working with a medical professional can help patients successfully choose supplements that benefit their medical condition. The following include some of most popular supplements:

• Ginseng: treats high blood pressure, menopausal symptoms, and illness recovery
• St. Johns Wort: treats mental disorders, sleep problems, and nervous system conditions
• Grape Seed Extract: treats heart problems, high blood pressure, swelling, vision problems, diabetes, and circulatory conditions
• Flaxseed: treats menopausal symptoms, arthritis, high cholesterol, and cancer prevention
• Garlic: treats high blood pressure, heart disease, and high cholesterol

    These are just a few of the dozens of supplements to consider. They treat a number of medical conditions and help with other health issues. Some supplements are used to prevent conditions, such as cancer. In addition, some supplements (such as Hoodia) are used to promote weight loss.

    The U.S. government and various private organizations are funding research to examine how effective supplements can be, as well as address health concerns with supplements. Currently, the NCCAM, one of the country's leading organizations concerned with health supplements, is funding projects to research ginger, turmeric, chromium, green tea, and yeast-fermented rice. This research could help patients with conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

    No matter how much supplements may benefit patients, this form of alternative medicine should not be used without the advice of a medical professional. Taking dietary supplements is just as dangerous as taking prescription medications without understanding how they work. Make sure to keep the following safety concerns in mind:

• Always inform doctors of every medication being taken, as well as any other treatments.
• Ask a doctor if the supplement is dangerous if alcohol is consumed.
• Never take more than the recommended amount of a supplement at one time, and never take more in a specific time period than the doctor's recommendation.
• Be careful when adding supplements to tea or coffee. Some supplements are meant to be added to food, but be careful that the amount ingested is safe.
• Stay in touch with research on supplements.
• Be aware of company recalls. If the FDA finds that a supplement is unsafe, they issue mandatory recalls to pull supplements off of the shelf.
• If planning to have surgery, check with the doctor about supplements that may hurt the surgical process.

    Supplements are not the only form of alternative therapy to consider. It is also important to take all treatment options into consideration. Patients have found success with massage,aromatherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, and many other kinds of alternative treatments.

    Before beginning any kind of treatment for any disease or medical condition, talk to a medical professional about available options, including supplements and other forms of alternative therapy.

 - TENS Therapy

    Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation - commonly known as TENS therapy - is somewhat similar to acupuncture, in that this treatment stimulates certain defined body locations. However, while acupuncture uses fine needles, TENS therapy stimulates body points with the use of electrodes that deliver very mild electrical shocks.

    Unlike many other types of complementary and alternative therapy, TENS has actually been approved by the FDA. While this doesn't automatically mean that TENS can provide a cure when it is used, it does mean that the treatment has been determined to be safe according to FDA regulations, and also means that TENS therapy is covered by insurance. For more information, please see TENS Therapy.

TENS Therapy - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a type of alternative therapy that focuses on energy. Using many of the same ideas as massage and acupuncture, TENS therapists place electrodes on the skin in certain locations - either on special points on the body or where the patient is experiencing pain. From a small battery pack, electrical shocks are sent through the body that relieve pain and help with other medical conditions.

    Unlike some other forms of alternative medicine, TENS therapy has been proven to work for many patients. TENS therapy has the potential to help relieve pain in two main ways. First, electrical signals send messages to the brain to produce more endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals produced by the body that produce feelings of euphoria. Additionally, the electrical signals can send messages to the brain that block pain messages.

    One of the great benefits of TENS therapy is the ability to perform treatment at home. A TENS therapy professional will help treat pain initially, as well as work with the body to find the right placement of electrodes. From this point, patients can control the battery pack. The medical professional will prescribe a certain routine, usually to use the battery pack several times every day for short intervals.

    As an added bonus, there are few side effects to TENS therapy. This makes TENS therapy an especially good choice for those concerned with side effects. In addition, TENS therapy is a good choice for those who are taking prescriptions or dealing with other medical conditions. While taking more medications may adversely react with other substances in the body, TENS therapy is safe to use with other medication. Also, patients with a pacemaker should not use TENS therapy, as it may interfere with its operation. Pregnant patients should also consult with their doctor before using this therapy.

    TENS therapy is also a safe choice because it is approved by the FDA. Because TENS is FDA approved, any insurance company will cover the process. If a doctor prescribes the treatment, most health insurance providers should fully cover the expenses. This is not always the case with some other kinds of alternative therapy.

    Those who are not at ease with controlling their own TENS machine can receive more intense treatments at a doctor's office. With these treatments, a medical professional will assist with control of the machine, making sure the electrodes are comfortable and the setting is adequate. TENS should not hurt or make a patient uncomfortable.

    Though TENS therapy does not work for everyone, TENS can be extremely beneficial for a wide variety of illness.

 - Yoga

    The origins of yoga lie in India, where this ancient art is practiced more for spiritual reasons than for health-related reasons. Outside of India, yoga has become a popular form of exercise that is physically and psychologically calming and strengthening. Learning simple yoga techniques can help improve general health by toning and strengthening muscles, improving flexibility and improving general health and one's state of mind. Please see Yoga for more information about this type of therapy.

Yoga - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Yoga is an ancient form of mind and body exercise. While yoga originated as a deeply spiritual practice, for many people in the United States, yoga is considered a type of exercise with no spiritual element. Yoga uses a combination of physical poses, breathing techniques, and meditation or visualization. Among the many types of alternative therapies available, it is one of the more widely used.

Health Benefits of Yoga

    There are a variety of health benefits associated with yoga. Yoga's gentle meditative poses calm the central nervous system, which can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve coordination and flexibility, and improve quality of sleep.

    The health benefits of yoga are available even for practitioners that do not mediate or otherwise implement the spiritual side of a yoga practice. The gentle exercises are excellent for those who suffer from back problems, as well as those who need to implement an exercise program. Some forms of yoga, such as power yoga or bikrim yoga, involve a more rigorous workout and may not be best for those who are pregnant, dehydrated or sick.

Who Can Benefit From Yoga?

    It is generally considered that anyone can benefit from yoga. Yoga is a proven way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and relieve anxiety. Even for the perfectly healthy individual, yoga (when combined with cardiovascular exercise and a weight training program) provides undeniable benefits. A solid exercise program has been proven to reduce the health risks associated with obesity, prevent the loss of bone mass and muscle mass, and help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

    For people suffering with chronic illness, such as cancer, arthritis or diabetes, a specialized yoga practice can be implemented to meet specific needs. Cancer patients suffering from fatigue and muscle soreness can benefit from a gentle yoga practice that can energize and restore the body. Arthritis sufferers experience relief from a yoga program developed to increase the range of motion in affected joints.

Developing a Yoga Practice

    Developing a regular yoga practice is an excellent way to integrate yoga into an established schedule. Many people find that a 30- to 60-minute session once a week goes a long way toward increasing flexibility and reducing stress levels. Other people find that a short 10-minute session first thing in the morning and again before bed on a daily basis is better for their schedule and body.

    Make sure to attend a few professional classes before practicing alone, which provides instruction for proper form under the supervision of an experienced instructor.

Working With Your Doctor

    Those suffering from a chronic or acute illness who would like to start a yoga practice as a form of alternative therapy should take the time to discuss the situation with a physician. Pregnant women are advised to avoid postures that may put pressure on the uterus. In addition to speaking with a physician, patients should make their yoga instructor aware of any physical ailments. While there are many yoga instructors that specialize in therapeutic yoga, they can be hard to find and may not be conveniently located. For a referral, ask a medical professional about local yoga classes and instructors.

 - Pet Therapy

    Also known as animal-assisted therapy or animal-assisted activities, this type of therapy aims to improve the general health and well-being of patients by allowing them to interact with a variety of animals. The wonderful effects of animal interaction has long been known - the simple act of stroking a cat or dog can improve the mood, lift the spirits and even provide some physical benefits (such as the temporary lowering of blood pressure). Pet therapy techniques can be used for a wide variety of medical conditions. For example, a physical therapist working with a person recovering from a stroke might bring a dog to a therapy session and have the patient brush the dog to help improve their motor skills. For more information on this type of therapy, please see Pet Therapy.

Pet Therapy - Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments

    Pet therapy, also known as animal assisted therapy, employs the use of animals in the treatment of any disease or illness. Pet therapy can range from watching fish swim in an aquarium to petting a dog to caring for livestock. The benefits of working with animals is well documented and many hospital rehabilitation centers and nursing homes have established programs that allow trained service animals into the facility as part of the therapy process.

The History of Pet Therapy

    There are documented cases of using pets for therapy beginning in the 9th century. During this time, a farm in Gheel, Belgium established the use of farm animals to teach people with disabilities how to care for the animals. In the 1790s, a farm for the mentally ill in England used caring for animals as part of treatment for people afflicted by mental illness.

    In the United States, soldiers that were injured during World War II were advised to care for farm animals to help in their recovery. While pet therapy was first used as an aid to treat patients suffering from psychiatric illnesses, it was not long before the benefits of pet therapy for physical diseases was recognized.

The Benefits of Pet Therapy

    There are a variety of benefits to pet therapy. Studies of patients with hypertension have shown a reduction in blood pressure by simply watching fish swim in an aquarium. Studies of heart attack patients show patients that own dogs are more likely to survive one year after their heart attack than patients who do not have dogs. It has also been shown that elderly people with pets are more alert and active.

    In addition to general health benefits, animals can play an active role in the recovery of patients. Stroke victims, who often show a pronounced weakness on one side of the body, can be encouraged to develop that side by stroking or petting a dog or cat. Even speech that has been affected by a stroke can be improved, as the patient, who may be self-conscious of their speech problems around other people, can relax and talk to a pet without concern.

What Type of Pet Can Be Used for Pet Therapy?

    All types of animals are used for pet therapy. Horses are used in a process called hippotherapy. Patients with disabilities that are taught to ride in hippotherapy sessions show an improvement in muscle tone, coordination, and even speech. Dogs and cats are also commonly used, and many nursing homes have aquariums in common rooms.

    Pets used for therapy must be calm and attentive, and willing to listen to their handler. Because many of the patients a pet will be exposed to may be connected to bulky equipment, may sit in a wheel chair or walker, or behave erratically, it is important for the pet to be calm and well-behaved. A dog that barks or growls, or a horse that becomes scared easily is not a suitable candidate for pet therapy.

Who Should Use Pet Therapy?

    Pet therapy has been proven through scientific studies to benefit the patient. Lower medication costs, longer life, increased alertness, and an improved mood are just some of the health benefits of pet therapy. While pet therapy should not be considered a replacement for conventional medicine, it is a wonderfully effective compliment to traditional methods. Whether the condition is chronic or acute, the advantages of pet therapy have been undoubtedly proven. Children who are allowed to pet a dog while undergoing a painful medical procedure require less pain medication, and the elderly have higher levels of social interaction when they have a pet. As pet therapy becomes more widespread, an increasing number of hospitals have begun to implement pet therapy programs.

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