Physical therapies

This section discusses five physical therapies; massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, acupuncture, shiatsu. These are not part of standard support but some of these therapies are available to patients in some cancer centres for relieving symptoms and reducing anxiety. Always make sure you are treated by a trained, registered therapist.

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 GP surgeries.

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 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 will reduce anxiety and bring 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 you are careful to avoid wounds or scars, vein thromboses (blood clots) and areas of tenderness, and to be particularly gentle if the cancer has spread to the bones, massage for people with cancer is particularly relaxing.

Aromatherapy

The use of oils in massage helps to avoid unnecessary pain and friction.

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic, highly concentrated essential oils during massage. Inhalation and scented baths are other ways to get benefit from these oils. They are produced by distilling and concentrating substances found in tiny glands in the petals, leaves, stems, bark and wood of many plants and trees. Different oils have different effects: for example, an aromatherapist may use cedarwood for a pleasant and relaxing effect, or rosemary for an invigorating and refreshing effect.

If you are undergoing conventional therapy for cancer, for example, chemotherapy, you should check with your doctor before beginning aromatherapy treatment.

It is not always necessary to remove clothing to have massage or aromatherapy. Often hand and forearm massage can be very relaxing.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a specialised form of foot massage that is related to the Chinese practice of acupressure. The theory underlying this therapy is that different areas on the sole of the foot represent and are connected to the body’s internal organs. By systematically putting pressure on these points, symptoms such as pain, constipation and sickness can be relieved. Many people report that reflexology can help reduce tension and pain and may be able to help with some symptoms of advanced cancer and to improve energy levels. Occasionally reflexology of the hands is carried out.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, the placing of sterile acupuncture needles to affect energy points below the skin, is part of traditional Chinese medicine.

As well as the circulatory and nervous systems in the body, in Chinese medicine there is also a system for life force (chi).

Acupuncture needles are placed along points in this theoretical system to help release the flow of chi and restore health and balance in the body. A number of scientific studies have shown how Acupuncture works and that it can help in pain relief. A professional acupuncturist may be a member of a team working in a pain clinic. Studies show that during acupuncture the body releases endorphins, natural chemicals which can relieve pain, relax muscles and increase feelings of well being. Acupuncture may sometimes be used to treat side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea. Seabands (acubands), which work on a similar principle, by applying pressure to a specific area of the wrist, may also be helpful.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage. Like acupuncture (see above) it is based on the idea that good health depends on the balanced flow of energy through specific channels in the body called meridians. Pressure is placed on the appropriate meridians to help the person’s energy regain its balance. Many people find shiatsu relaxing and re-energising, as well as easing pain and other symptoms.