When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it can be an overwhelming experience for them and their loved ones. The treatment process can take a significant toll on a person’s physical and emotional health, leaving them feeling exhausted and in pain. Fortunately, massage therapy is a complementary therapy that can offer much-needed relief to cancer patients.
Massage Therapy & Cancer Patients
Massage therapy involves using gentle and non-invasive techniques to ease pain, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. It’s a valuable addition to cancer patients’ care because it can help reduce physical symptoms and improve emotional well-being. Massages can also be adapted to meet the specific needs of cancer patients, taking into account factors such as cancer type, stage, and treatment history.
Studies have shown that massages can help improve the quality of life for cancer patients. For example, one study found that advanced cancer patients who received massages reported lower levels of pain, anxiety, and overall symptom distress than those who did not receive such massages. Another study found that massages helped reduce the severity of lymphedema symptoms in breast cancer survivors.
Massage therapy can also have emotional benefits for cancer patients. Many cancer patients experience anxiety and depression during their treatment, and massages can help ease those feelings. For example, breast cancer patients who received targeted massages reported lower levels of anxiety and depression than those who did not receive it.
Massages are typically performed by licensed therapists who have training in relevant therapies. Oncology massage involves adapting traditional massage techniques to meet the specific needs of cancer patients. The massage therapist will work with the patient to determine the appropriate techniques to use based on their cancer type, stage, and treatment history.
It’s important for cancer patients to consult with their healthcare providers before starting massage therapy. In some cases, such therapy may not be appropriate, such as in the presence of certain medical conditions or in areas where there are tumors or medical devices. However, for many cancer patients, therapy can be a valuable addition to their treatment plan.
Massage therapy can offer significant benefits to cancer patients during treatment. By reducing physical symptoms and promoting relaxation, therapy can help improve patients’ quality of life and overall well-being. If you or a loved one are undergoing cancer treatment, consider speaking with your healthcare provider about incorporating massage therapy into your care plan.