The authors of the research are focused on the investigation of the efficiency of alternative medicine in cancer pain management. For this reason, they conduct a quantitative study that collects numerical data about various non-pharmacological therapies that can be used to assist patients in struggling with pain and improving the quality of life. Singh and Chaturvedi (2015) review randomized controlled trials devoted to the effect of yoga, aromatherapy, massage, acupuncture, and reflexology.
The given approach is utilized to prove or refute the hypothesis stating that the use of alternative medicine to alleviate cancer pain can be considered an effective and less dangerous alternative to the traditional pharmaceutical treatment. That is why the authors were focused on the analysis of existing studies related to the given issue and formulation of credible conclusions regarding the information presented in them. The relevance of the offered information was one of the basic inclusion criteria for the choice.
The investigators give preferences to Eastern practices that have traditionally been associated with India. These include aromatherapy, yoga, massage, and hypnotherapy. In such a way, the setting of the study is impacted by the cultural peculiarities of the selected measures. Thus, in the course of the investigation, Singh and Chaturvedi (2015) conclude that the quality of life of cancer patients can be improved by combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies to achieve the desired effect and alleviate pain. In such a way, alternative methods can be recommended as a possible option.
References
Singh, P., & Chaturvedi, A. (2015). Complementary and alternative medicine in cancer pain management: A systematic review. Indian Journal of Palliative Care, 21(1), 105-115.