The ABC Benefits of Oncology Massage
The world of Oncology, of Cancer, is a field whose research has brought us a long way, but one in which, it seems, we are in the infancy of fully understanding. As part of the overall science of Oncology is a growing understanding of the effects of massage for cancer survivors. Studies continue to firmly conclude the positive impact massage has on many of the side effects that cancer survivors experience, but there are a growing number of indications of the benefits of oncology massage: reduction of stress, pain, nausea; improved sleep; eased constipation. Below is more conversation on some of the benefits.
Anxiety has been clearly shown to be reduced by massage. Most of our lives are stressful. Add the stress of Cancer; on top of that, an oncology patient’s life becomes even more full of the stress of anxiety. Doctors’ visits, medical tests, treatments are all clinical necessities that add to this anxiety. Massage is well-known as a stress-relief for any of us, but for someone whose life has become filled with clinical realities, the gentle touch of massage can be like being ‘held in the hands of God’ as noted by one woman. “The loving touch, like music, often utters things that cannot be spoken.” Ashley Montagu (from Medicine Hands)
Breast Cancer may lead to a mastectomy. The skin and muscle tissue around a woman’s chest following a mastectomy often hardens and becomes less pliable. In some cases, this has impacted the ability of the woman to breathe deeply and comfortably. There is a type of massage that helps make this tissue more pliable, loosen the skin, and in some cases, allow a breast cancer survivor to take her first deep Breath following the mastectomy.
Cancer treatments often include chemotherapy. One of chemotherapy's possible side effects is a condition referred to as Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN). A patient’s hands and/or feet have sensations of numbness or tingling. In some cases, pain described as ‘shooting, stabbing or aching.’ Oncology massage includes a specific protocol that has been shown to reduce the side effects of CIPN, reducing and/or eliminating the pain, numbness, and tingling that the chemotherapy sometimes causes.
Holistic treatments such as massage have been successfully used for cancer survivors for many years. Experience some of the benefits of massage that can improve your quality of life.
Contact Sweet Serenity Massage & Salt Therapy to experience some of the benefits of massage that can improve your life quality.
When scheduling your appointment, be sure to let us know your concerns and request an appointment with Donna Ladu. Give us a call at 859-371-SALT (7258); we would love to be a part of your healing journey.
Pictured to the left: Donna Ladu - LMT, Oncology Therapist
