Patients dealing with cancer are increasingly looking for ways to expand and enhance their conventional treatment. Our experience shows that many are finding the benefits of complementary therapies through Integrative Medicine.
Patients at NorthShore Kellogg Cancer Centers at Evanston, Highland Park and Glenbrook Hospitals feature dedicated Integrative Medicine practitioners in Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. Massage therapy, nutrition, herbal supplements and Integrative Medicine consultations are available at the Park Center in Glenview.
We employ a variety of integrative therapies to help patients both during and after completing cancer treatments. Complementary cancer treatments can positively impact a range of quality of life issues, including increased energy, strength, appetite, pain relief, better digestive functioning, and restful sleep.
Our integrative team works collaboratively with NorthShore oncologists and other specialists, with seamless communication through our shared Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Cancer Treatment
A growing number of patients are choosing to integrate acupuncture therapy and Chinese herbal medicine into their conventional cancer care. These therapies can help offset the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy as well as the anxiety of a cancer diagnosis.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been shown to relieve pain and neuropathies, alleviate nausea and constipation, boost immunity and appetite, and help promote a sense of calm and well-being. Patients routinely report looking forward to their integrative treatments for the emotional and physical benefits.
Our practitioners have received special training through Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for treating oncology patients. The Integrative Medicine team works closely with NorthShore oncologists who are increasingly referring patients for integrative oncology treatment.
Laser acupuncture is also available for patients with cancer, particularly those dealing with lymphedema or other contra-indicators for needles. The low-level laser is a safe and effective, needle-less form of treatment and offers similar benefits to traditional acupuncture. NorthShore is the first center in the community to provide low-level laser acupuncture therapy to patients, adhering to the highest safety standards set forth by our rigorous hospital review process.
Massage Therapy and Cancer Treatment
Massage promotes relaxation and stress reduction. It is recognized as beneficial for cancer patients both physically and emotionally. Patients find a myriad of benefits from massage, including reduced pain, headache relief, decreased fatigue, anxiety and depression, insomnia relief, and more positive body awareness. Through gentle comforting touch, many of the body's functions move toward more optimal functioning.
FAQs
Q: Who will benefit?
A: Acupuncture and integrative bodywork fit safely and effectively with conventional cancer care in primarily reducing fatigue, nausea, pain, weight loss and neuropathy. These therapies may also help reduce stress and anxiety. Interested patients should check with their oncologist or nurse to discuss whether integrative oncology is an appropriate treatment option while at Kellogg.
Q: Where are the treatments performed?
A: Treatments are performed in a tranquil, private room at Kellogg (Glenbrook or Highland Park) or the Glenview Park Center on a massage table or in a chair, depending on what is most appropriate for the patient. The Park Center is located in the Glen at 2400 Chestnut in Glenview.
Q: What about the use of vitamins, herbs and supplements during chemotherapy and radiation or with surgery?
A: Our fellowship-trained Integrative Medicine physicians provide specific guidance in collaboration with your Kellogg oncology team for the safest, most effective combinations to promote optimal nutrition, energy and immune function with thoughtfully prescribed over-the-counter supplements. The NorthShore Wellness Shoppe, located in the Park Center, carries pharmaceutical-grade, exclusive formulas with an established track record of quality and safety.
For More Information
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call the Integrative Medicine Program at 847.657.3540. To order high-quality herbal formulas and nutritional supplements, call the Wellness Shoppe at 847.657.3542 for curbside or mail orders, or stop by the shop at the Park Center, 2400 Chestnut in Glenview.