Massage therapy offers powerful benefits for cancer patients, helping to ease pain, reduce anxiety, and improve overall quality of life during treatment.
Receiving massage on a regular basis is great for people in good health. However, bodywork can also be beneficial for those with more serious illnesses. Studies have shown that cancer patients receiving regular massage have decreased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, pain and fatigue during their treatment. While this therapy is not considered treatment on its own, many health care professionals acknowledge that it can be useful as a noninvasive, complimentary therapeutic addition to treatment.
Massage is generally performed by trained massage therapists. Caregivers and family members can also be trained in safe therapeutic techniques to allow for the treatment to be done at home. Regular massage can be used to relieve muscle pain and stiffness, as well as increasing mobility and reducing pain from headaches and backaches.
During a massage, the body raises the production of endorphins and helps to flush lactic acid out of muscles. Lactic acid is a waste product that muscles produce as they are worked. It also helps with muscle recovery, breaking up scar tissue, and pain relief. The pain relief aspect of bodywork reduces the need for pain medication, allowing those going through cancer treatment to have one last pill to take. While this helps with symptom management and overall improvement of health, it does not slow or reverse the growth of cancerous cells.
Those with bone problems, such as rheumatoid arthritis or bone cancer, osteoporosis or other bone disease, could see their symptoms worsen by physical manipulation and should avoid the deeper pressure sessions. Patients undergoing chemotherapy have shown to be more susceptible to allergic reactions from lotions and oils often used in a massage, as well as have a tendency to bruise easier than those without any blood thinning medications.
The potential benefits are often promising for people with cancer, who deal with the stress of the illness and the unpleasant side effects of conventional treatment. Studies support massage for short term symptom relief, but there is not enough research to tell if there is any measurable long-term benefits. Just like any form of treatment, it is best to inform your medical care provider that you are interested in pursuing massage as a complimentary therapy.
Many cancer treatment centers now include therapeutic bodywork as part of their integrative care programs. Patients who receive regular sessions often report feeling more in control of their wellness journey and better equipped to handle the physical and emotional demands of treatment. If you or a loved one is going through cancer care, consider adding gentle professional sessions to your recovery plan.
How Massage Supports Cancer Recovery
Gentle therapeutic techniques can play an important role in a comprehensive cancer care plan. Professional therapists who specialize in oncology bodywork understand how to adjust pressure and technique to accommodate the unique needs of patients undergoing treatment. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, research continues to show that regular sessions can reduce cortisol levels, improve sleep quality, and support immune function in cancer patients.
Always consult with your oncologist before beginning any new wellness routine, including bodywork. A qualified therapist will work closely with your medical team to ensure every session is safe, comfortable, and tailored to your current stage of treatment.
Book a Gentle Session at Happy Head
At Happy Head, our trained therapists provide compassionate care tailored to your specific needs. We offer affordable sessions with no membership or contracts required, and walk-ins are always welcome at any of our convenient San Diego locations. Experience the many benefits of regular massage therapy and give your body the gentle support it deserves during your wellness journey.
