Integrative Oncology in Mackay
15+ years of experience
Personalised treatment plans
Integrative approach
AHPRA compliant
Mackay Integrative Oncology
Integrative oncology provides complementary therapies designed to support people going through cancer treatment. Its focus is improving comfort, reducing side effects, and enhancing quality of life. At Scott Martin Acupuncture in Mackay, patients receive individualised care using acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine as part of a broader, patient-centred support system.
These therapies are not used to treat cancer, but to help you manage the symptoms that arise during chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or recovery. Nausea, fatigue, pain, poor sleep, and emotional distress can significantly affect a person's well-being. Integrative care can offer relief and stability throughout this time.
Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and promotes the release of natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory chemicals; herbal medicine (when appropriate and in consultation with other healthcare providers) can support digestion, immune function, and general resilience. A qualified practitioner with experience helping cancer patients provides all care and complements conventional medical treatments.
To discuss how integrative oncology care can support your treatment journey, call 0434 157 808 to book a consultation.
Healing & Recovery
Living with cancer involves dealing with the cumulative effects of treatments on the body and mind. Integrative oncology uses traditional Chinese medicine principles to support the body's healing response and minimise the intensity of treatment-related side effects.
Targeted acupuncture may relieve fatigue, neuropathy, digestive problems, stress, and insomnia. Integrative care focuses on symptom relief, emotional stability, and immune support to help patients feel in control of their health during difficult times.
Chinese medicine takes a holistic view of the body, making it suited to helping people navigate the ups and downs of cancer treatment and recovery. We aim to make sessions restorative, calming, and aligned with your energy levels, especially during active treatment or post-surgical recovery.
Integrative oncology also provides a space for emotional release and mental clarity, which can be critical when facing uncertainty. With safety as a priority, treatments are adjusted based on your medical progress and needs. These therapies, used alongside conventional oncology, aim to reduce distress and promote long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is integrative oncology and how can it help cancer patients?
Integrative oncology is a complementary approach that combines supportive therapies with conventional cancer care. Its goal is not to cure cancer but to reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and support emotional well-being. It typically includes acupuncture, massage, nutrition, counselling, and, in some cases, herbal medicine.
Patients often seek integrative care for relief from pain, nausea, fatigue, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and the overall stress of treatment. These therapies are designed to work alongside chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery and should be coordinated with your oncology team.
Is acupuncture safe during chemotherapy or radiation?
Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe for people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, provided it’s administered by a qualified practitioner familiar with cancer care. The practitioner must understand when and where to use needles to avoid risk (e.g., avoiding needling near areas of compromised immune function or surgical sites).
Acupuncture can be beneficial for managing nausea, fatigue, hot flashes, neuropathy, and stress during active treatment. Sessions are typically gentle and adjusted based on the patient's condition, blood counts, and energy levels.
Can Chinese herbal medicine be taken during cancer treatment?
Herbal medicine can be supportive during cancer care, but it must be prescribed with caution and under professional supervision. Some herbs can interact with chemotherapy drugs or affect liver function, so it's essential to consult a practitioner trained in both Chinese medicine and integrative care.
When used safely, herbal formulas may aid digestion, immune strength, sleep, and recovery. However, not all cancer patients are suitable for herbs during treatment; ongoing communication with the oncology team is vital for safety and coordination.
