Complementary and integrative medicine for breast cancer patients

Complementary medicine encompasses procedures that are used alongside conventional medical therapy – for example, herbal preparations. Many of these methods originate from alternative medicine or traditional healing systems and have varying degrees of scientific validation.  
Integrative medicine, on the other hand, takes an evidence-based and structured approach: It specifically integrates scientifically proven complementary methods into conventional cancer treatment – individually tailored, quality assured and supported by an interdisciplinary team.

Our aim is to work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that is right for you, based on our practical experience and the latest scientific findings. 

Complementary and integrative medicine can be used effectively in all stages of breast cancer treatment – always as a supplement to conventional medicine, not as a replacement. It is aimed at patients who want to actively contribute to their well-being and recovery.

Possible reasons for wanting to accompany conventional treatment with complementary therapies include: 

• To provide relief from side effects of oncological treatment, such as nausea, menopausal symptoms or fatigue
• To boost physical stamina
• To promote a healthy lifestyle
• To stabilise emotions and reduce stress  
   

In Switzerland, some complementary medicine procedures are recognised under compulsory health insurance and are covered under certain conditions provided they are performed by suitably trained and medically recognised specialists. Medical checks and consultations – including acupuncture treatments performed by doctors – are usually covered by basic insurance. If additional costs are incurred, e.g. for dietary supplements, we will of course inform you in advance.

Many supplementary insurance policies cover the costs of additional complementary medical treatments, often including therapies that are not covered by basic insurance or those performed by non-medical therapists. The exact services and cost coverage vary greatly between providers and insurance plans. Typical services covered by insurance may include: 

• Yoga therapy
• Massage, e.g. acupuncture massage
• Nutrition consultancy 

Talk to your provider in advance so that you know what your insurance covers and what costs you will have to pay yourself. 

In an in-depth consultation, we take the time to discuss your individual situation, wishes and questions. Depending on the circumstances, the initial consultation usually covers two main areas. Firstly, we consider where your interests in greater self-efficacy lie. Often, these are methods from the field of mind-body medicine. We then look at how we can specifically support your quality of life through complementary therapies, e.g. by treating the side effects of oncological treatments.

Our services are designed to complement conventional therapies without causing any interactions.  
Services and methods: 

• Mind-body medicine: It connects body and mind and uses targeted methods such as relaxation, exercise, nutrition and mindfulness. This can reduce stress and enhance well-being.
• We will advise you on the options available and, if necessary, refer you to the appropriate specialists, e.g. nutrition consultants.
• Scientific studies show that physical exercise can be a valuable aid in improving quality of life during all phases of cancer treatment. These benefits include rebuilding strength, relieving joint pain through endocrine therapy, and regaining mobility, all of which can help to make the side effects of treatment more manageable. It has been proven that supervised and structured exercise programmes help cancer patients in particular to feel better in their everyday lives. Together, we will look at how and where you can receive support.
• Treatments for side effects of cancer therapy:
  • Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM): Including acupuncture, acupressure, gua sha (connective tissue massage) or ear acupuncture
  • Herbal medicine: e.g. mistletoe therapy, medicinal teas
  • Water therapy: Wraps and affusion showers
  • Sphère Medical Spa offers a wide range of holistic treatments such as yoga, acupressure, nutrition consultancy, oxygen therapy and more. 

Our experts in Chinese medicine are based here at the Breast Centre, but we also collaborate with other practices, such as TCM Chan, a traditional Chinese medicine practice with several locations in Zurich. This multidisciplinary team specialises in treating women and men with breast cancer.