Cancer Relief: Discover the Benefits of Massage Therapy

Discover how massage therapy can provide physical and emotional relief to cancer patients, complementing conventional treatments.
Cancer Patients and Massage Therapy
Photo by National Cancer Institute

Cancer treatment can be a challenging experience, both physically and emotionally. Patients often struggle with symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Massage therapy is one complementary therapy that has been shown to provide significant benefits for cancer patients. In this article, we will explore the benefits of massage therapy for cancer patients, as well as the precautions and considerations to keep in mind when seeking massage therapy.

Understanding Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients

Massage therapy is a form of complementary therapy that involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The aim of massage therapy is to promote relaxation, reduce tension and stress, and alleviate pain and discomfort. For cancer patients, massage therapy can be especially beneficial, as it can help reduce some of the symptoms associated with cancer treatment.

Studies have also shown that massage therapy can help boost the immune system in cancer patients. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that breast cancer patients who received Swedish massage therapy had increased levels of immune system markers compared to a control group who did not receive massage therapy. This suggests that massage therapy may have a positive effect on the immune system, which is important for fighting cancer.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients

There are several benefits of massage therapy for cancer patients, including:

Pain relief: Cancer patients often experience pain as a result of their illness or treatment. Massage therapy can help reduce pain by increasing blood flow, releasing tension in muscles, and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

Reduction of anxiety and depression: Cancer patients may experience high levels of anxiety and depression during treatment. Massage therapy has been shown to help reduce these feelings of stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being.

Improved quality of sleep: Many cancer patients experience sleep disturbances due to the physical and emotional effects of treatment. Massage therapy can help improve the quality of sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing pain and discomfort.

Improved immune function: Research has shown that massage therapy can help improve immune function in cancer patients. This can lead to a reduced risk of infection and a faster recovery from illness.

Precautions and Considerations for Massage Therapy

While massage therapy can provide significant benefits for cancer patients, there are some precautions and considerations to keep in mind when seeking this form of therapy. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider or a qualified massage therapist before beginning treatment.

Timing of massage therapy: Depending on the type of cancer treatment a patient is receiving, there may be specific times when massage therapy is not recommended. For example, massage therapy may not be recommended immediately following surgery or radiation therapy.

Areas to avoid: There may be certain areas of the body that should be avoided during massage therapy, such as areas where there are lymph nodes or radiation treatment sites. It is important to discuss any areas of concern with the massage therapist before beginning the session.

Choosing a qualified massage therapist: It is important for cancer patients to find a qualified massage therapist who has experience working with cancer patients. Patients should look for a therapist who is licensed or certified and is willing to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan.

Types of Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients

There are several types of massage therapy that may be beneficial for cancer patients, including:

Swedish Massage: This type of massage therapy is gentle and relaxing, involving long, smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements to help promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.

Deep Tissue Massage: This form of massage therapy is more intense than Swedish massage, involving deeper pressure on the muscles and connective tissues. It can be effective in reducing pain and tension in cancer patients, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

Shiatsu: Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to help alleviate pain and tension.

Reflexology: Reflexology involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet and hands, which correspond to different organs and body systems. It can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Manual lymphatic drainage: This is a specialized form of massage therapy that focuses on improving lymphatic function. It can be especially beneficial for cancer patients

In conclusion, massage therapy can provide significant relief and benefits for cancer patients. By understanding the types of massage therapy available, the precautions and considerations to keep in mind, and finding a qualified massage therapist, cancer patients can experience much-needed physical and emotional relief during treatment.

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About Athlete’s Choice Massage

Athlete’s Choice Massage was created to provide consistently excellent rehabilitative services for health-conscious people. Our team is extremely well-trained and they take pride in their work. They are constantly striving to learn and better themselves in their respective fields so that they can help you recover and aid in the maintenance of your well-being.

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All appointments will begin with a short but in-depth one-on-one assessment. This is your opportunity to point out what area you’d like to work on during your time, as well as identify any special requests or concerns you may have. Should you have more than one area of concern, your therapist will prioritize the chief complaint and create a treatment plan for the time allotted and for follow-ups as needed.

Please note our 24 Hour Cancelation Policy.

With massage therapy being covered by many people’s extended health care benefits, it is now easier than ever to experience the positive effects of therapeutic massage.

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When a massage is administered, your body reacts to the pressure and movement of the massage therapist’s hands in a variety of ways. As your body relaxes, the massage prompts the release of hormones and Read More

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Massage therapy can provide cancer patients with physical and emotional relief. It can help alleviate pain, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and boost the immune system. It can also improve the range of motion and flexibility of the affected area, and reduce the risk of lymphedema.

Yes, massage therapy can help with some chemotherapy side effects. For example, it can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and neuropathy. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing massage therapy, as some side effects may require special precautions or contraindicate massage.

Yes, there are some risks and contraindications to massage therapy for cancer patients. For example, massage may not be appropriate for patients with certain conditions, such as low blood counts, blood clots, or fragile bones. It is important to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with a healthcare provider and a qualified massage therapist before undergoing massage therapy.

No, massage therapy cannot replace conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. However, it can complement these treatments by providing physical and emotional relief and improving quality of life. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes massage therapy along with other appropriate treatments.