Massage therapy popular for cancer patients


I have been saying for years that massage and yes reflexology are good modalities for cancer patients. Now there is emerging evidence that it is very beneficial.

"For years, massage therapy was considered inadvisable for someone with cancer. The concern was that massage could cause metastasis from the cancer site to another part of the body.'
"According to information from Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, "What is currently being demonstrated about massage through research studies is that the emotional, physical and spiritual well being it brings to patients is significant. These effects may eventually be shown to overwhelm any possible risks by enhancing a sense of well-being and stimulating the immune system to fight the cancer better. Enhancing circulation could also theoretically allow for greater circulation of immune cells."
Reflexology is also lumped in with this category unfortunately denying the cancer patient much needed relief.
The article goes on with caution for certain types of cancer. But that only makes sense. There needs to be research in this direction but logic says that the benefits probably outweigh the dangers.
Source of the article
Terri Ashment
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Kevin Kunz
http://www.reflexology-research.com
http://www.foot-reflexologist.com
http://www.myreflexologist.com

Posted: Wed - May 11, 2005 at 07:40 AM        

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