Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment as a Complementary and Integrative Approach for Cancer Supportive Care: A Systematic Review

Background: Cancer is one of the leading causes of disability in both the United States and worldwide. Its high global prevalence is accompanied not only by the burden of the disease itself but also by the adverse effects of treatment, which can significantly diminish patients’ quality of life (QoL). Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), an emerging complementary therapy, seems to show promise in the improvement in quality of life (QoL) in these patients. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of OMT as a complementary and integrative therapy for the relief of symptoms and improved functional capabilities in cancer patients. Methods: The literature search was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science databases. A risk of bias analysis was conducted by evaluating the included randomized controlled trials to assess domains, such as randomization, intended intervention, incomplete outcome data, outcome measurement, and selective reporting. Between the 20 randomized controlled trials and observational studies, information regarding OMT in the treatment of general cancers, oral, pediatric, head and neck, gynecological, breast, and gastric cancers was collected. Results: Our analysis displayed a patient-reported increase in QoL, especially through the reduction in pain and lymphedema, as well as an increase in overall functional capabilities. Conclusions: Overall, the findings underscore the potential role of OMT as an adjunctive therapy for patients with a wide range of cancers, contributing to symptomatic management and enhanced QoL.