Gas discharge visualization – historical developments, research dynamics and innovative applications

INTRODUCTION: In the treatment of breast cancer, quality of life improvement and preservation of the function of the adjacent limb and its aesthetic appearance are natural necessities in the 21st century and depend on precise planning of the surgical intervention and rehabilitation following. AIM: The aim is to study the combined effect of oncorehabilitation and Cordyceps sinensis in patients with breast cancer, who have undergone a full course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy MARTERIALS AND METHODS: А 56-years old woman diagnosed with stage II–III breast carcinoma and a full course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy at the Oncology Clinic of St. Marina University Hospital in Varna is presented. The methods used included structured interview, WHO-QOL-BREF questionnaire, functional tests, and laboratory tests. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The complex positive effects of the oncorehabilitation program and Cordyceps sinensis impact all QOL domains, and to the greatest extent the areas of Psychological Health and Social Relationships. A reduction of pain and numbness was also achieved, resulting in daily activities improvement. CONCLUSION: As there is deficiency in the number of medical institutions where complex oncological rehabilitation is applied, the implementation of methodology, combining conventional and complementary medicine in clinical practice is essential for the overall impact on the quality of life in breast cancer patients.

Introduction: Ultrasound therapy is an evidence-based method for the treatment of knee joint osteoarthritis due to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and regeneration properties. In addition, phonophoresis has more potency to reduce pain and inflammation, combining therapeutic ultrasound with medical substances, penetrating the tissues. Complementary medicine implements essential oil-based formulations in physical therapy in order to optimize the effectiveness of the ultrasound modality. Purpose: to assess the therapeutic effect of complementary ultrasound therapy in the management of osteoarthritis-related knee pain. Materials and methods: Materials: A 55-year-old male suffering from osteoarthritis-related left knee joint pain, undergoing complementary ultrasound therapy at the University Center for Eastern Medicine. Methods: Ultrasound therapy with an essential oil-based cream formulation against joint and muscle pain. Results: There is an improvement in symptoms on the second day, with a reduction in pain and swelling, and an increased range of motion in the knee joint in the short term, compared to conventional physical therapy. Conclusion: Complementary ultrasound therapy using pure essential oil-based enriched formulation is a novel method to obtain synergy of essential oils, empowering the physiological and therapeutic action of ultrasound therapy.