Though many doctors have long dismissed the ability of “alternative” or “complementary” treatments to relieve the pain and stress of Mesothelioma or the side effects caused by traditional treatments for the disease, more medical professionals have finally begun to recognize the fact that these “other” therapies do indeed provide benefits for the cancer patient. In fact, many cancer hospitals and clinics are now offering on-site alternative therapies for their patients. Massage is among those therapies that are becoming more acceptable as a way to relieve the pain and stress experienced by cancer patients.

Massage is a therapy that is enjoyed by individuals the world over, including healthy people as well as those suffering the ravages of a particular disease, including cancer. Many proponents of this therapy recognize that it promotes well-being and relieves the tension and stressors of everyday life as well as pain produced by certain diseases or disorders. Indeed, some people treat themselves to a massage weekly or make certain that its part of the pampering process while on vacation. But for Mesothelioma patients, a good massage can mean so much more than just a few minutes of indulgence each week.

Cancer Pain and Massage

Mesothelioma is a disease that causes much discomfort. Victims of this asbestos-caused cancer often complain of chest or abdominal pain at the start, and once the disease has metastasized, the whole body will ache because of the spread of the disease to bones and other parts of the body. Though doctors will certainly prescribe medications to reduce pain, many patients look for a more natural way to relieve pain, eager to avoid adding yet more pills to their already long list.

Massage works by applying tension, pressure, and motion to the soft tissues of the body. This includes the tendons, muscles, ligaments, and lymphatic tissue. This pressure has been proven to relieve pain. The act of massaging also helps to improve circulation and blood flow, which can also reduce discomfort. And, say some, this alternative therapy may also serve to enhance the immune system, though no definitive information is yet available on that subject.

The pain of Mesothelioma is caused not only by the disease itself but also by the traditional treatments used to fight the disease, including chemotherapy and radiation. Massage can help with this kind of pain as well and is also known to reduce nausea, a common side effect of chemotherapy. (However, patients who have had radiation treatment and may have skin burns as a result should consult their physician before considering massage as it may do more harm than good.)

Most experts agree, however, that the advantages of this treatment far outweigh the disadvantages. Many individuals who choose to try massage as a method of pain relief note that they have been able to significantly reduce the amount of pain medication they take and are very pleased with the results. Furthermore, some insurance companies are now willing to pay for a certain number of massage treatments, finally recognizing that this is a viable treatment option for this suffering from chronic cancer pain.

Stress and Massage

Some Mesothelioma patients note that taking time to get a massage is one of the best ways for them to reduce the stress of dealing with their disease and the eventual outcome. While massage simply feels good, studies also show that it may stimulate the production of endorphins in the body, therefore causing significant mood elevation and an overall feeling of well-being, if only for a short time.

Some patients also note that the opportunity to enjoy the touch of another human being prompts a state of relaxation as well. This is especially true for those who are battling Mesothelioma on their own because family lives in another location or are otherwise unavailable to provide comfort to the victim. Connection with another person in this way is comforting, and comfort is important in the life of a cancer victim.

Choosing a Massage Therapist

For those seeking to try massage for pain or stress, the first place to look for a therapist is at your local cancer center. If there is not a massage professional on site, your oncologist or another member of your medical team may be able to recommend one in the local area.

If you are receiving a massage for the first time, be sure to inform the therapist as to the particulars of your disease so that he/she can choose the proper massage and so that nothing will be done that will cause damage to your already fragile body.

Source: Department of Veterans Affairs, Veteran’s Administration: http://www.rehab.research.va.gov/; American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org