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 Massage Therapy
Free Massage
Participating independent oncology massage therapist listed in our massage locator database offer one free massage for recently diagnosed cancer patients. A signed approval by the cancer patients doctor is required. Note: Not all massage therapist offer this free massage service.
 To Locate a Massage Therapist
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Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients
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Massage Therapy
for Anxiety, Pain, Fatigue & Nausea
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| Simple safe and effective natural methods to improve outcome for cancer patients. |
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According to the American cancer society, massage is "thought almost universally to be a beneficial therapy. It is helpful not only physically but emotionally as well, because it soothes the soul and the mind. "Massage can not cure cancer, but it has been shown in several studies to improve quality of life and well-being. There is some scientific evidence that massage enhances the immune system by increasing blood circulation, massage was shown to promote relaxation and alleviate pain and anxiety for cancer patients.
Is Massage Therapy Safe for People Living with Cancer?
Yes, when practiced by a skilled therapist with background or training in massage and cancer.
A skilled therapist will combine a thorough intake process with sound clinical judgement and clear communication about what to expect in the session. She or he will adapt the massage to your needs and requests, fashioning a hands-on session that relaxes, energizes and reduces pain and discomfort.
Can Massage Spread Cancer?
No, it cannot. Massage of a solid tumor site should be avoided, but there is more to a person than a tumor site.
Massage is practiced widely at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Memorial Sloan-Kettering, and a growing number of hospitals around the country. Metastasis is not a concern; instead, patients and researchers report countless benefits.
How can Massage Benefit People who are Living with Cancer?
Massage has many benefits for people living with cancer. A few are listed, below. We know some of these from clinical observations, some from controlled research, and some from what clients tell us directly.
Massage Reduces Anxiety
Many clients report being less anxious in general when receiving regular massage. In particular, clients in cancer treatment state that massage eases anxiety before and during uncomfortable procedures and interventions. Research literature reports that massage helps anxiety in patients with cancer and in other populations. In repeated studies of various populations, massage helps reduce depression, as well.
Massage Eases Pain
Recipients of massage therapy express less cancer-related pain, treatment-related pain, and pain related to muscle tension. They claim that massage helps "take the edge off" of acute pain and in some cases relieve it entirely.
Massage Helps Control Nausea
Gentle massage has been shown to reduce nausea in inpatients receiving autologous bone marrow transplant. In a pilot nursing study, stimulation of acupressure points has been suggested to reduce nausea in patients in chemotherapy.
Massage Improves Sleep and Eases Fatigue
Again and again, cancer patients tell their massage therapists that massage improves their energy level and helps them sleep better.
Do consult with your doctor before having a therapeutic message and make sure your massage is performed by a skilled therapist who has advanced training in working with cancer patients.
Whether a cancer therapeutic massage is for yourself, a family member or friend you no longer need to ask "What Can I Do." Receive or Give the Gift of Love.
Massage Therapy is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. A physician should always be consulted for any health problems or medical condition. Always heed the medical Advice of a doctor you trust..
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