The benefits of massaging a body part are well known, it relieves pain, it helps relax the patient and it just feels good. Massage is one of the mesotelioma alternative treatment methods. Professional massages are usually the work of specially trained physicians and therapists, but patients can easily do it at home as well.
Massage is not a cure for mesothelioma cancer, but, similar to acupuncture, it helps patients to deal with the disease and symptoms.
Types of mesothelioma aiding massage
There are many types of massages done to mesothelioma patients, each with their own purpose:
- oil massage ( helps relieve pain, and by the use of scented oils, it also helps the breathing symptom)
- cream massage ( done with minty creams that open up the skins pores and when doing so, a small portion of the cream reaches the bloodstream and helps the patient relax)
- simple massage ( done very firmly, in the areas that the doctor recommends, helps blood pressure, needed to carry the chemotherapy drugs)
It is one of the few mesothelioma alternative methods that the doctors recommend, together with acupuncture. It is very useful mostly to relieve pain and helping patients cope with the symptoms associated with mesothelioma and mesothelioma treatment methods. It is even recommended by the American Cancer Society, as being a generally useful procedure.
Scientists proved that mesothelioma massages are useful when done professionally, because they stimulate blood flow and increase the bodies’ natural defenses against asbestos diseases and other asbestos related conditions.
Mesothelioma massages and safety
Some things you should avoid when considering massage as an alternative treatment for mesothelioma:
- don't have a massage right after surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, it may damage areas that are healing or cause nausea
- do not massage the area next to a tumor, it will help the tumor grow because of high blood flow
- patients that have a bleeding condition should avoid firm massage
- if, during massage, you experience more pain than usual, let your therapist know
Patients should look for a specialized massage therapist. There are several that are trained to massage cancer patients, so they will know exactly what to do. Home massage should also be helpful, but should be done softly and not using any kind of creams or oils. Tell the person that massages you what areas feel better when massaged, and instruct them to avoid being rough.