What is the difference between complementary medicine and alternative therapy?
Complementary medicine is treatment used in addition to conventional therapy. For example, using relaxation techniques during chemotherapy. Complementary therapies may also include music, massage, yoga, tai chi, etc. The Integrative Medicine Program at UPMC Cancer Centers conducts research on complementary and alternative therapies and cancer. The clinical use of these therapies at UPMC Cancer Centers provides information about various approaches to cancer prevention and treatment as well as symptom management. Complementary medicine is not the same as alternative medicine. Alternative medicine is treatment in place of conventional therapy such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Alternative therapies are generally unproved, expensive and may be harmful. Many alternative therapies are sold over the counter. It is strongly recommended that cancer patients discuss alternative or complementary therapies with their oncologist or physician prior to beginning such treatment. For addition
