Breast Cancer, Metastatic or Recurrent

Radiation therapy

Reference Radiation treatments may be a good choice to treat cancer that has spread to the brain, to relieve bone pain, and to control the spread of the cancer.

The type and length of radiation therapy depend on the area of your body affected, your health, and any other symptoms. Even though radiation treatments may not cure your cancer, they may improve your quality of life.

Complementary therapy

People sometimes use Reference complementary therapies along with medical treatment to help relieve symptoms and side effects of cancer treatments. Some of the complementary therapies that may be helpful include:

• Reference Acupuncture to relieve pain.
• Reference Meditation or Reference yoga to relieve stress.
• Reference Massage or Reference biofeedback to reduce pain and ease tension.
• Reference Breathing exercises for relaxation.

These mind-body treatments may help you feel better. They can make it easier to cope with treatment. They also may reduce chronic low back pain, joint pain, headaches, and pain from treatments.

Before you try a complementary therapy, talk to your doctor about the possible value and potential side effects. Let your doctor know if you are already using any such therapies. They are not meant to take the place of standard medical treatment.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.