Integrative Cancer Therapies

Holistic therapies that complement your cancer treatment

As you progress through your cancer treatment, remember that you have choices. There are many complementary therapies and lifestyle choices that can enhance the effectiveness of your cancer treatment and help you feel more in control. We offer a variety of integrative therapies at the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center.

Massage Therapy

Patients at the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center can receive free hand, foot and shoulder massages, along with aromatherapy, during their treatments. The licensed massage therapist visits are coordinated through a collaboration with The Victory Center. 

Massage therapy has both physical and psychological effects, including:

• Relaxation
• Improving circulation
• Strengthening of the immune system
• Removing of toxins from the body
• Improving sleep
• Reducing of fatigue, pain and anxiety.

Where: Infusion Center

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a popular integrative therapy that uses the scent of concentrated plant oils — essential oils — to improve feelings of well-being and relieve stress.

Aromatherapy is used to relieve symptoms that are caused by disease or its treatment, including:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Pain

The most common forms of aromatherapy are diffusers or devices that allow you to inhale the scent of essential oils. Essential oils may also be used during therapeutic massage therapy.  For example, lavender may be used to help reduce anxiety and sleep problems.

Renee’s Survivor Shop at the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center holds several aromatherapy educational programs throughout the year. Essential oils and products are available at the shop. For more information, contact 419.383.5243.

Pet Therapy

A therapy dog visits patients regularly at the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center.

Animal assisted therapy, or pet therapy, is a form of therapy that uses dogs and other animals to help people cope with illnesses such as cancer. Visiting with a certified therapy pet in the healthcare setting may provide patients and their families with:

• Comfort and relief
• A distraction from pain, discomfort and stress
• Elevated energy levels and improvements in mood
• A sense of companionship that combats feelings of isolation