Complementary Medicine
We generally prefer the term “complementary medicine” to “alternative medicine” in that the latter implies you are using it in addition to—rather than instead of—the best science-based medical treatment. If you are considering any unconventional treatment, we urge you to discuss it with your doctor to make sure it is not something that would conflict with your current treatment, or harm you in any other way.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a technique in which very thin needles are inserted through the skin to treat a variety of conditions. Clinical studies have found it may help treat nausea caused by chemotherapy. More information about acupuncture can be found at www.medicalacupuncture.org. Locally it is available from:
Dr. Brenda Donaldson
Royal Oak: 248-551-0456
Troy: 248-964-9111
Practice is targeted towards the treatment of cancer patients, patients with musculoskeletal disorders and patients in chronic pain.
Integrative Medicine at Beaumont
44250 Dequindre Road
Sterling Heights, MI 48314
248-964-9200
Offers community acupuncture, which is acupuncture therapy performed within an open group of people. Tuesday evenings 7:00 PM-9:00 PM.
Acupuncture Health Care Associates
7001 Orchard Lake Rd Ste 120
248-737-7126
www.acupunctureinmichigan.com
Holistic Cancer Counseling
Holistic cancer counseling is intended to enhance the function of your immune system by holistically addressing all areas of your life, improving the beneficial effects of treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. Follow up appointments may include: visualization and imagery training, nutritional guidance, and development of tools to assist you in healing, acupuncture to support your system during treatment, hypnosis or Yuen therapy. Locally it is available from:
Henry Ford Medical Center—Novi
40000 W. 8 Mile Road
Northville, MI 48167 248-380-6201
Naturopathic Physicians
Naturopathic doctors are the general practitioners of complementary medicine. They are trained in conventional pathology and diagnosis, as well as a number of therapies that support the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Such therapies include nutrition, homeopathy, herbal medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture, herbs, diet), lifestyle counseling, and mind-body medicine. Locally it is available from:
Dr. Jen Greene
Integrative Medicine
Rose Cancer Center
3577 W. 13 Mile Road, Suite 304
Royal Oak, MI 48073
248-551-9990
Acupuncture Health Care Associates
7001 Orchard Lake Road, Suite 120
248-737-7126
www.acupunctureinmichigan.com
Oncology Massage
Oncology massage refers to massage tailored to the needs of individuals with cancer. This specialized practice requires therapists to be fully educated in and pay close attention to the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of clients in all stages of cancer: diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivor, or terminal. Training in oncology massage covers appropriate bodywork modalities for cancer clients, includes precautions for radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, and covers physiology and pathology. Locally it is available from:
Center for Health Improvement
39750 Grand River Avenue
Novi, MI 48375
248-473-3100
Gail Evo
248-551-9990 or 248-964-9200
Reiki Therapy
Reiki is a therapeutic practice done through light touch and is an easy addition to most medical treatments to help patients handle the stress of cancer treatment. Locally it is available from:
Center for Health Improvement
39750 Grand River Avenue
Novi, MI 48375
248-473-3100
Gail Evo
248-551-9990 or 248-964-9200
T’ai Chi
T’ai chi is a Chinese exercise system that uses slow, smooth body movements to achieve a state of relaxation of both body and mind. Locally it is available from:
Center for Health Improvement
39750 Grand River Avenue Novi, MI 48375
248-473-3100
Yoga
Yoga can help relieve some symptoms of cancer and can lead to increased relaxation and physical fitness. In studies of women with breast cancer, yoga has been shown to reduce fatigue and improve quality of sleep, physical vitality, and overall quality of life. It is available locally from:
Center for Health Improvement
39750 Grand River Avenue
Novi, MI 48375
248-473-3100
Gail Evo
248-551-9990 or 248-964-9200
Gilda’s Club at Botsford
Botsford Cancer Center
27900 Grand River Avenue
Farmington Hills, MI 48336
248-442-0482
Tuesday 4:30 PM-5:30 PM yoga workshop. No previous yoga experience is required, and the instructor can help modify moves for varying physical capacities. All men and women impacted by cancer are welcome. There is no charge.
Rose Cancer Center
3577 W. 13 Mile Road
Royal Oak, MI 48073
248-551-9990
Yoga is offered for a drop-in rate of $10 per class, every Monday, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM, and Thursday 11:00 AM-12:00 PM.
