Massage Therapy
Massage is an ancient technique that spans many cultural and healing traditions. Examples of a few types of massage therapy include Swedish massage, reflexology, shiatsu, tui na, neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, and manual lymphatic drainage, among others.
Massage is generally considered safe in people with cancer. There are many studies that have examined various type of massage and found benefits including: improved mood and sleep, increased energy, decreased anxiety and depression, as well a improvements in pain and even nausea. Massage can also be deeply relaxing and nurturing.
Massage therapy has the potential to greatly improve quality of life for cancer patients and their caregivers. Ask your care team if they have recommendations for a massage therapist to work with or if the cancer center offers hand, chair, or other massage services. You may find that aromatherapy and massage pair well together.
- Resources
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Amercian Massage Therapy Association: How to Choose A Massage Therapist
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American Massage Therapy Association: Massage Therapy Beneficial in Oncology Care
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BreastCancer.Org: Massage
Get an overview of massage, what to expect in a treatment, practitioner requirements, and research around massage and cancer.
