Integrative Therapy

To complement your care and add to your comfort while you are receiving treatments, the Brown University Health Cancer Institute offers complementary therapies free of charge. While these therapies do not take the place of your medical treatment, they are relaxing and may have the added benefit of decreasing anxiety, nausea and pain.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is offered during cancer treatments in the infusion area and also by appointment in a private room, at no charge to patients.  Patients find it helpful to relieve pain, nausea, anxiety and side effects of medications.  It also is helpful for improving sleep and strengthening the immune system.

Acupuncture is provided by a board-certified Doctor of Acupuncture.  

Reiki

Reiki is a stress relief technique that has been used for centuries. It has been used in hospitals and health care settings around the country for years and is now widely practiced in Rhode Island.

What is Reiki?

The word "reiki" means spiritual wisdom (Rei) and life force (Ki); however, Reiki is not a religion. It also does not take the place of, or conflict with, and medical treatment. You may receive Reiki sitting in a chair or lying down. The twenty to thirty minute sessions are offered before, during and after clinical treatments. A trained practitioner performs the technique with a light touch: he or she may place hands gently on or slightly above the body. During sessions, soft music is played to increase the patient's relaxation.

Reiki is offered by a trained practitioner during scheduled times in the treatment room. The Reiki schedule is posted monthly in the waiting area and assessment rooms. offered by a trained practitioner in twenty- to thirty-minute sessions before, during and after clinical treatments.

Massage

Massage therapists offer seated massage, reflexology (an acupressure and massage technique for the hands and feet), and therapeutic touch, which balances and promotes the flow of energy through touch.

We are pleased to announce our massage therapy program. Massage can be very therapeutic and our staff is experienced in all types of massage.

The many benefits of massage therapy include:

• Relief of tension and stress
• Increased circulation
• Decreased pain and stiffness
• Increased energy and alertness
• Heightened sense of well-being

Our staff will circulate around the treatment room offering free chair massage.

Our massage therapists also offer Reflexology, an acupressure and massage technique for the hands and feet. The also offer Therapeutic Touch, which balances and promotes the flow of energy through touch.

Clients do not have to disrobe for any of the massage techniques offered in the treatment room.

If you would like treatment while you are here, please let your nurse know.

Pet Therapy

Visiting with animals can help patients feel relaxed and at ease. Pets, specially trained to interact with patients, can be found at the center on Thursday and Friday mornings.

We find that visiting with animals can help patients feel relaxed and at ease. They also provide a welcome distraction and make it easier for patients to strike up conversations with one another.