subject: What Alternative Therapies Are Covered By Supplemental Cancer Insurance? [print this page] The side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, both standard and effective treatments for cancer, can be brutal. Side effects include nausea and vomiting, pain, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, elevated stress levels, and anxiety. Many patients have found incorporating alternative therapies, like yoga and meditation, into their cancer treatment plan, is an effective way to manage and alleviate these side effects. Your traditional and standard health insurance will not likely pay for the cost of these treatments, but if you have supplemental cancer insurance, these expenses will be covered.
Aromatherapy: For centuries, the scents of ginger, lavender, and peppermint have been used to reduce nausea and vomiting, pain, and stress levels. These fragrances can be applied directly to the body via oil, infused in bathwater, or diffused throughout the home for a calming effect.
Acupuncture: Another traditional combination of art and science, acupuncture, has been proven effective at relieving nausea and pain. A trained acupuncturist inserts tiny needles into specific and precise points along the body, relieving pressure and creating a flow of endorphins and serotonin. Please note that acupuncture is not safe for patients on blood thinners, so check with your doctor first.
Biofeedback: During biofeedback, a therapist uses electronic devices to monitor a specific bodily function, like your heartbeat. Your bio-therapist will then help you recognize your bodys cues regarding pain, anxiety, stress, fatigue and nausea, and create a plan to manage those symptoms before they become overwhelming.
Exercise: After a round of chemotherapy or radiation, getting up and moving around may be the last thing on your priority list. Studies indicate that moderate exercise (about 30 minutes a day of low impact fitness training), has a positive effect on fatigue and sleeplessness.
Hypnosis: This deep state of concentration and relaxation allows a patient to focus on goals like reducing pain, stress, or anxiety.
Massage: While massage may conjure up images of a relaxing day at the spa, there is medical evidence suggesting that massage plays an important role in relieving stress, pain and anxiety. Massage is also used to promote relaxation and is often used in combination with aromatherapy.
Meditation: Its not just for hippies anymore. Meditation and the corresponding deep breathing is a proven stress reliever, anxiety buster, and relaxation tool.
Music Therapy: Go ahead and download that new playlist. Whether you need some Madonna to keep your spirits lifted or some Enya to help you relax, music therapy increases relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety.
Relaxation Techniques: Like meditation, relaxation techniques teach you to visualize your muscle relaxation. Deep, centered breathing is a proven solution for anxiety, nausea and fatigue.
Yoga and Tai Chi: These ancient exercises combine deep breathing, gentle movements, bending and stretching to fight fatigue, stress and pain. You can do these gentle exercises from the privacy of your own home, or head to a class or group for added support.
These therapies are not intended as a substitution for conventional cancer care, but rather as a supplement to your treatment plan. With supplemental cancer insurance, these additional therapies are not an additional expense. CancerPlans.com provides patients and their families with as much financial stress relief as a lavender candle at a yoga study.
by: cancerplans
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