Integrative oncology for breast cancer: Managing HER2 treatment side effects

If you’ve been diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, your treatment plan may include therapies that specifically target the HER2 protein. While these treatments are effective, they can come with side effects that can be challenging to navigate. Integrative oncology can complement your treatment plan to help you manage some of these side effects and enhance quality of life.

What is integrative oncology?

Integrative oncology is an evidence-based, patient-centered approach that combines conventional cancer treatments with supportive therapies that address physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It works alongside your medical care to help you cope with all aspects of a cancer diagnosis, not just the disease itself, but also how it impacts your body, mind, and daily routine.

Evidence-based guidance powered by NCCN Guidelines®

Personalized treatment plans shaped by the latest oncology standards—tailored to your diagnosis.

Get started

View your personalized treatment plan in the Outcomes4Me app

Use your diagnosis to unlock personalized NCCN Guidelines®-aligned recommendations.

Continue in app

This whole-body approach recognizes that cancer affects more than just one organ or system. It can disrupt sleep, mood, digestion, and your sense of identity. If you’re looking for a nonpharmacological way to support yourself through treatment and into survivorship, integrative therapies can be powerful tools that make a big difference in how you feel and function.

How it helps with HER2-positive breast cancer treatment side effects

With HER2-targeted therapies, you may experience common side effects including fatigue, nausea, joint pain, neuropathy, and lack of appetite. Integrative therapies can help combat these symptoms in the following ways:

• Acupuncture: This practice involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body to help promote healing. Acupuncture can ease nausea, neuropathy, fatigue, and stress.
• Massage therapy: Trained massage therapists can lessen muscle tension, reduce pain, and manage lymphedema. These massages may improve circulation and relieve inflammation.
• Mind-body practices: Yoga, meditation, and breathwork can help you manage stress and anxiety by reconnecting with your body and regulating the nervous system.
• Nutrition counseling: HER2-positive breast cancer treatments can affect your appetite, digestion, and ability to maintain a healthy weight. A registered dietitian trained in oncology can help you find foods that nourish your body, support energy levels, and reduce side effects like nausea, bloating, or constipation. 
• Exercise programs: Movement may be the last thing on your mind during cancer treatment, but research shows that regular physical activity can fight fatigue, improve strength, reduce treatment side effects, and enhance overall quality of life. Programs may include walking routines, resistance training, or low-impact activities like tai chi or yoga. Be sure to consult your care team before starting a new exercise regimen.

These approaches emphasize that cancer doesn’t just impact one part of the body. Integrative oncology takes your whole body into consideration to help you feel more balanced and in control after a diagnosis.

How to access integrative oncology services

Some cancer centers may have an integrative oncology department. If you’re interested in integrative therapies, ask your care team if they have integrative oncologists or supportive care specialists available. Depending on your insurance, your plan may cover acupuncture, massage therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy. You can also explore local community offerings or trusted online resources including:

• Society for Integrative Oncology: Includes a tab with the pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue guidelines mentioned in the webinar
• CancerChoices: Integrative oncology resource with a patient and caregiver focus
• Oncio: Free mindfulness-related practices
• Yoga Bridge: Free yoga programs for people with cancer
• Healing Works Foundation: Guided imagery meditation 
• Taking Care of the Whole You: Free ebook on how to get started with integrative oncology 

Integrative oncology helps you take an active role in managing your HER2-positive breast. Watch our webinar discussion with City of Hope’s Dr. Krisstina Gowin to learn more about this specialized field.

Connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.