Massage therapy offers real relief for cancer patients dealing with pain, anxiety, and fatigue. While it is not a cure, bodywork can complement traditional treatment and improve daily comfort during a difficult time.
Cancer patients undergo a tremendous amount of trauma, both physically and psychologically. More often than not, this pain is both physically and mentally draining. However, recent medical research shows that there may be some benefits for bodywork for cancer patients. Along with chemotherapy, therapeutic touch for cancer has numerous benefits for those being treated for cancer. Let us take a look at a few of the biggest benefits therapeutic care can bring into the lives of those fighting cancer.
In This Article
How Massage Helps Cancer Patients
We know that medications and chemotherapy sessions help in internal treatment, but did you know that therapeutic bodywork can greatly benefit cancer patients too? Gentle sessions can help reduce the distress undergone by the cancer patients as a result of the battles faced on a day to day basis. Everything from tough doctors’ appointments to going through daily routines becomes a struggle, and these sessions produce a healing response to the recurring treatment of chemotherapy.
Improved Blood Circulation Through Massage
Bodywork also helps to improve blood flow throughout the entire body, thereby assisting the cancer patient to respond faster to medication and other chemotherapy sessions easier. When the blood circulation improves, recovery time shortens as new blood cells develop in body.
Pain and Inflammation Relief
Cancer patients who receive therapeutic bodywork may also be more likely to have reduction in general pain, inflammation, muscle spasms and stress than other patients who have not received massage therapy.
Reducing Edema and Swelling
Typically cancer patients experience something called “edema”, which is swelling and accumulation of water in the ankles. This is usually a result of medication and other nerve debility that occurs during treatments. Therapeutic bodywork is known to help in reducing edema to a great extent by offering a boost of lymphatic flow during a session.
This holistic approach is a great way of enhancing the benefits of other forms of cancer treatment. It offers both short term as well as long term benefits for cancer patients. Bodywork is obviously not a cure for cancer. However, it may assist cancer patients going through therapy and improve their overall well-being.
Cancer treatment takes a heavy toll on both the body and mind. Many patients report difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and heightened emotional stress during chemotherapy and radiation. Gentle therapeutic touch can address these side effects by calming the nervous system and promoting deeper relaxation. Even a single session can help patients feel more grounded and in control during an otherwise overwhelming time.
Family members and caregivers also benefit when their loved ones receive regular bodywork. Seeing a patient experience relief and comfort can reduce the emotional burden on the entire support network. Many caregivers choose to book their own wellness sessions as a way to manage the stress that comes with supporting someone through treatment.
What Research Says About Massage and Cancer Care
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, studies show that therapeutic touch can reduce anxiety and pain in oncology patients. Many hospitals now include bodywork as part of integrative cancer care programs.
If you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment, gentle bodywork sessions may provide comfort and relief. Always consult your oncologist before scheduling a session to ensure it is safe for your specific situation.
Book a Gentle Session at Happy Head
Happy Head offers customized, gentle sessions for clients with special health needs at all San Diego locations. Explore the full range of benefits of massage and schedule your next appointment today.
