This post was written and submitted by Melanie Bowen.
Those who are undergoing cancer treatment often have to deal with overwhelming side-effects. For this reason, both patients and doctors are looking for alternative treatments to manage difficult symptoms. One approach that is being taken is the use of massage therapy. Recent studies have found that massage therapy can ease pain and improve a patient’s emotional welfare.
Massage therapy is a process that involves rhythmically kneading the body’s muscles and tissues. There are many different types of massages that are used across the world. The Swedish massage is the most common in the United States. During this massage, the therapist uses long and smooth strokes to rub the muscles. However, mesothelioma treatment requires a much lighter therapy session since this type of cancer is extremely serious.
These movements happen in a deep circular motion. Other popular types include the Thai massage, Oriental massage and the Shiatsu. Massages are given in a warm environment and last anywhere from twenty minutes to one hour. Soothing music is usually played in the background. Along with that, aromatic oils are used to enhance the experience.
According to the American Cancer Society, massage therapy provides many benefits for cancer patients. For instance, massage therapy helps patients by increasing blood flow and stimulating the lymphatic system. Patients often feel less tension and anxiety after getting a massage. Since having cancer is such a stressful situation, any kind of treatment that can relieve stress is important. In the end, the reduction in anxiety causes patients to feel less depressed. Having a positive attitude often increases a patient’s chance of survival.
Overall, massage therapy can lessen the pain that a patient feels. One study found that massages increase blood flow and oxygen levels in the muscles. This can influence neural activity and moderate the actions of subcortical nuclei. As a result, the body’s pain perception is modified. Alleviated pain helps the mental well-being of cancer patients. In addition, it also improves their overall quality of life.
Patients who are fighting a serious disease such as mesothelioma require alternative treatments to help manage their symptoms. A number of studies have been conducted in the past few years to examine how well massage therapy works as an alternative form of therapy. These studies have found that massages promote relaxation and stress reduction by improving circulation throughout the body. The therapy can relieve headaches, joint pain and stiffness. Not only that, but it can also minimize lower back pain and prevent insomnia.
Although massage therapy is not a cancer cure, it can help when it’s combined with other forms of treatment. Patients should consult with their doctor to come up with an effective treatment plan. Getting a massage is a great way to relax and find inner peace. It’s the perfect time for cancer patients to give their mind and body a break from the stresses of life.
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