Dados do Resumo

Título

The use of Integrative and Complementary Practices in the treatment of cancer pain

Introdução

The use of Integrative and Complementary Practices (ICPs) in the treatment of cancer pain has proved to be an increasingly relevant approach in the care of cancer patients. These practices, which include therapies such as Acupuncture, Meditation, Art Therapy, Reiki, Yoga and Aromatherapy, offer a complementary approach to conventional treatment, helping to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of cancer patients throughout their journey.

Objetivo

To present and discuss the use of Integrative and Complementary Practices in the treatment of cancer pain, based on the literature published in indexed journals.

Métodos

Literature review using the PubMed electronic database, carried out in September 2024, using the Medical Subject Headings (MESH): “Complementary Therapies” and “Cancer Pain”.

Resultados

The PUBMED search, based on the MESH used, showed 156 articles published up to September 2024, with the first article published in 2014. The most prevalent types were: 34 reviews, 26 clinical trials, 24 randomized controlled trials, 19 systematic reviews and 16 meta-analyses. Guidelines and research using animal models were also found. The ICPs studied were: Acupuncture, Auriculotherapy and other Traditional Chinese Medicine resources, Music Therapy, Aromatherapy, Massage, Hypnosis, Reflexology, Meditation, Osteopathy, Yoga and hands-on techniques such as Reiki and Therapeutic Touch. Most of the studies aimed to evaluate the effects of one ICP modality, but there were also reports of multimodal protocols that combined two or more complementary therapies. The studies reported satisfactory results for acute or chronic pain, in adult and pediatric patients.

Conclusões

The role of ICPs in the management of cancer pain is not to replace conventional medical treatments, but to act as a complement, offering a broader and more personalised approach. The integration of these practices with conventional treatment reflects a holistic vision of care, where the focus is not only on controlling physical symptoms, but also on promoting integral quality of life and well-being. More research is needed due to the increased use of these resources.

Palavras Chave

Complementary Therapies; Cancer Pain; Integrative Oncology