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complementary therapy

(KOM-pleh-MEN-tuh-ree THAYR-uh-pee)
Treatment that is used along with standard treatment, but is not considered standard. Standard treatments are based on the results of scientific research and are currently accepted and widely used. Less research has been done for most types of complementary therapy. Complementary therapy includes acupuncture, dietary supplements, massage therapy, hypnosis, and meditation. For example, acupuncture may be used with certain drugs to help lessen cancer pain or nausea and vomiting. Also called complementary medicine.
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Search NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms