Massage for Cancer Patients

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

10 Mar 2008 05:51 PM

There is a common misconception that massage is NOT safe for cancer patients. Despite a total lack of evidence, many people believe that massage can spread cancer cells around the body.

There is no evidence that this is true. In fact, massage can be very beneficial for cancer patients!

1. Reducing side effects. Studies have shown that massage (manipulation of muscles and other soft tissues) can reduce pain, nausea, fatigue, and anxiety in cancer patients.
2. Improving patient well-being. Cancer isn't just difficult physically -- it can be emotionally traumatic as well. Massage can help improve a cancer patient's state of mind and sense of well-being.
3. Relieving depression. Research has found that cancer patients who receive massage therapy after surgery tend to have fewer symptoms of depression than those who just get traditional post-operative care (without massage).
4. Distraction from unpleasant treatments. Many patients report that getting a massage while undergoing chemotherapy can help distract them from the experience.

Many cancer centers are offering massage to patients as complimentary therapy. And don't forget -- "massage" can also include treatments like acupressure (a therapeutic cousin of acupuncture) and reflexology. Massage can stimulate a body's natural healing powers, and leave a patient feeling more peaceful and relaxed.

Don't just jump gung ho into massage if you are a cancer patient. Talk to your doctor about your plans and look for a massage therapist who is experienced in treating people with cancer. Here are a few other massage precautions for people with cancer:

• If you have just had chemotherapy or radiation therapy, you may have low blood platelet counts and can bruise easily. Make sure you have only light massage if you have recently had chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This will help avoid bruising.
• If you have recently had surgery, avoid massage if there are any signs of infection (redness, swelling, tenderness) at the surgical site. This will help avoid making discomfort worse.
• If you have recently had radiation therapy, avoid massage at the treatment site. Massage at the treatment can irritate the skin.

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Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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