Mesothelioma Treatment: Exploring Massage

Mesothelioma patients may find great relief and relaxation in massage. Massage is one of the oldest therapies in existence. Until the nineteenth century, massage was commonly referred to in medical textbooks.  Then drug therapy took over and it is only fairly recently that massage has been accepted again by the medical and nursing professions. Massage therapists can now be found working in hospital wards, hospices and some doctors' offices.

Everyone knows touch can relieve pain and distress, whether it is a hug, a hand on the shoulder or a parent rubbing a young child's injured knee. Massage is a form of structured or therapeutic touch which can be used to relax, to relieve muscle pain and tension, and to bring comfort through contact with another human being.

For someone who is in the hospital or bedridden, massage can help lessen feelings of hopelessness and despair. Relatives or friends can be taught to massage the person who is ill, which reduces anxiety and brings comfort to both people. Massage can be a form of communication between therapist and patient, as well as relieving pain and muscle tension. As long as care is taken to avoid wounds or scars, vein thromboses (blood clots) and areas of tenderness, and the touch is very gentle if the cancer has spread to the bones, massage for people with cancer is particularly relaxing.

• Massage
• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology
• Acupuncture
• Shiatsu