Massage Therapy Can Be Important for Cancer Patients
Recent research compiled by the American Massage Therapy Association on massage therapy for cancer patients continues to indicate its value for easing pain, reducing nausea, and preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. It is also recommended or supported for consideration by the American College of Physicians, The Joint Commission and the Federation of State Medical Boards.
A recently-published study showed significant prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer patients for those receiving massage therapy.1 The success continued through a 12-week assessment. Another study indicated massage and inhaled aromatherapy significantly lowered chemotherapy-induced acute nausea and vomiting among breast cancer patients.2
“Research on the value and efficacy of massage therapy for many of the issues related to cancer and its treatments continues to evolve,” says Christopher Deery, President of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). “Cancer patients should discuss with their physicians the inclusion of massage therapy as part of an integrative approach to their care, as oncology massage can provide real value.”
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