Masssage : Cancer

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Massage Therapy is considered a complementary cancer therapy, helpful in decreasing the stress and anxiety associated with cancer, and it is also recommended as a means of easing cancer-related pain.

The American Cancer Society recommends Massage Therapy to bring comfort and to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, although not to specifically treat cancer. Many physicians suggest using Massage Therapy as a complement to cancer treatment.

Benefits of Massage for Cancer Patients

Many studies have shown that Massage practiced on people undergoing cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy and surgery can reduce pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and nausea. Other benefits include:

1) Better Quality of Life - After receiving one 30-minute Massage a week for three consecutive weeks, participants in a 2009 study (all undergoing breast cancer treatment) reported improved quality of life and functioning. Massage Therapy also appeared to help study members sleep better.

2) Anxiety Relief - In a 2004 review of ten studies on Aromatherapy Massage, researchers determined that the treatment may help improve psychological wellbeing and lessen anxiety among people with cancer.

3) Stronger Immune System - Massage may boost the number of natural killer cells and lymphocytes (both known to play a key role in immune defense) in women with breast cancer, according to a 2004 study. After receiving half-hour massages three times a week for five weeks, study members also saw a decrease in anxiety, depression, and hostility, and an increase in the levels of the mood-regulating brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin.

4) Less Pain - In a 2002 study of 41 people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, massage was associated with decreased pain (in addition to less anxiety and better sleep quality).

5) The Comfort of Touch - Receiving attentive touch can remind you that your body can still be a source of pleasure. Other benefits may include feeling whole again, being able to share feelings, re-establishing a positive body image, and rebuilding hope.

Massage Precautions for People with Cancer

It's critical for people with cancer to consult their physicians before undergoing Massage Therapy. Complementary therapies, like massage, are used in conjunction with the conventional interventions of mainstream medicine. They are not used as an alternative to chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery.

A few concerns to keep in mind: Massage may be uncomfortable for people who have received radiation therapy. Manipulation of bone in an area of cancer metastasis could cause a fracture. People undergoing chemotherapy may be more vulnerable to bruising.