The Gift Of Touch Massage and Cancer

By Susan Saucier, LMT

A Woman's Touch Therapeutic Massage

. http://www.awomanstouchmassage.com/

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The Gift Of Touch Massage and Cancer

If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis, holistic touch therapies such as massage can be a wonderful compliment to traditional medicine. A gentle massage can be used not to address your disease, but you as a whole person. This is caring touch to soothe and nurture both body and mind.

When dealing with the stress of a serious illness as well as the unpleasant side effects of conventional medical treatment, massage offers deep relaxation for the mind and can help restore the body's own healing resources by boosting the immune system.

Patients receiving regular massage during cancer treatment have reported a reduction in pain, nausea, fatigue, stress, anxiety and depression, while experiencing an increase in relaxation, sleep, coping abilities and quality of life. For cancer patients who will die from the disease, massage can help ease their final days and hours.

In the past, there were concerns that massaging a person with cancer might spread that cancer to other parts of the body. However, researchers are finding that the potential for metastasis is similar to how cancer occurs in the first place it is driven by genetic factors that are inherited or environmental factors that are acquired. Cancer cells do travel via the lymphatic system, but comfort-oriented massage does not increase lymph circulation any more than any other daily activity.

Today, massage is generally accepted and acknowledged by doctors and hospitals as an important part of cancer care. Many hospitals, such as Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City, recognize the power of massage and other touch therapies, and offer it to their patients.

There are, of course, a few differences between oncology massage and a “regular” massage. In oncology massage, the intention is not to “fix” the client, but to touch them with caring, comforting hands, providing as much quality of life without doing any harm. Massage is additional input to your system and can tax your energy; therefore light pressure, shorter sessions, and a slower pace are recommended.

Special consideration is given to positioning, as clients often have ports and catheters or damaged skin from radiation and surgery, and cannot always lie in the traditional face down position on the massage table. Others may be sensitive to scented oils or candles.

A massage plan is made for each client with adaptations to meet their individual needs. For some clients in active treatment, gentle energy work such as Reiki is also a wonderful option.

Be sure to discuss your plans with your oncologist first to get his advice and approval, and then experience the gift of touch.