Short sessions of soft-tissue massage provided a sense of meaning and inner respite among cancer patients in palliative care, according to recent research.
Soft tissue massage allowed a time of rest and respite from a weak and poor body and from bothering thoughts, as it stimulated peacefulness, relaxation and energy in daily life,” state the study’s authors. “The physical touch and attentiveness by the therapist confirmed and acknowledged [the cancer patients’] existence.”
The research ran in Support Cancer Care; a full research report will run in the June issue of MASSAGE Magazine.
In February MASSAGE Magazine reported on research which showed massage and aromatherapy improved sleep in advanced cancer patients.