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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Operational and Intervention Effects of Targeted Tuina in Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Rabbits

Operational and Intervention Effects of Targeted Tuina in Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Rabbits

Published on: July 21, 2023

Integrative medicine: complementary therapies and supplements.

Barrie R Cassileth¹, Jyothirmai Gubili, K Simon Yeung

¹Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA.

Nature Reviews. Urology

|April 9, 2009

Summary

Complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga can safely manage cancer treatment symptoms. Avoid unproven alternative therapies and potentially harmful supplements for better patient outcomes.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Operational and Intervention Effects of Targeted Tuina in Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Rabbits

Operational and Intervention Effects of Targeted Tuina in Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Model Rabbits

Published on: July 21, 2023

Area of Science:

Integrative oncology
Urologic cancer care
Evidence-based complementary medicine

Background:

Patients with cancer and urologic disorders often seek complementary therapies.
Complementary modalities are used to manage symptoms and support treatment.
Distinguishing complementary from unproven alternative therapies is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the role and evidence for complementary therapies in urologic oncology.
To differentiate safe, evidence-based complementary approaches from potentially harmful alternative ones.
To highlight the benefits of specific complementary modalities for symptom management.

Main Methods:

Literature review of complementary therapies in cancer and urologic disorders.
Analysis of evidence supporting physical and emotional symptom management.
Comparison of complementary therapies with alternative treatments.

Main Results:

Evidence supports acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and physical activity for managing cancer treatment side effects.
These therapies offer safe, beneficial adjuncts to mainstream medical care.
Herbs and dietary supplements lack evidence of benefit and may pose risks.

Conclusions:

Evidence-based complementary therapies are valuable for managing physical and emotional symptoms in urologic cancer patients.
Complementary therapies should be integrated as safe adjuncts, not replacements, for standard care.
Caution is advised regarding unproven alternative therapies and supplements due to potential harm.