By Eryka Callaghan
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can turn your world upside down. It can alter your life to one filled with fear, uncertainty, and a whirlwind of treatment options. In the midst of this chaos, many patients discover the potential of massage therapy as a complimentary therapy. This gentle, restorative treatment not only offers relief from physical discomfort but also nurtures emotional well-being and enhances overall quality of life. Here are some of the key benefits of massage therapy for breast cancer patients, including its effectiveness in managing lymphedema.
Alleviating Pain and Discomfort
Breast cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, can lead to significant physical discomfort. Pain, stiffness, and fatigue are common experiences. Massage therapy can help alleviate these symptoms by promoting relaxation and improving blood circulation.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that patients with breast cancer who received regular massage reported a substantial decrease in pain and an increase in overall comfort. One breast cancer survivor shared her experience: “After my chemotherapy sessions, I felt exhausted and achy. Getting a massage not only helped relieve my pain but also allowed me to reconnect with my body in a positive way.”
Enhancing Sleep Quality
Sleep disturbances are common among breast cancer patients, often stemming from pain, anxiety, and treatment side effects. Massage therapy can be a great option to help patients with breast cancer get a better night’s sleep. For instance, the study by Liu et al. found that breast cancer patients who received regular massage therapy reported significant improvements in sleep quality compared to those who did not receive massage. Massage therapy can promote deeper and more restorative sleep by relaxing the nervous system and alleviating physical discomfort. As a result, patients may find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, which is crucial for overall health and recovery.
Improving Body Awareness and Acceptance
Undergoing treatment can alter how patients perceive their bodies, especially after surgeries like mastectomy or lumpectomy. Massage therapy encourages patients to reconnect with their bodies in a positive way. This increased body awareness can foster acceptance and help patients feel more comfortable in their own skin, enhancing their self-esteem and body image during a challenging time.
Reducing Anxiety and Improving Mood
The emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Anxiety and depression are common among patients, often exacerbated by the stress of treatment. Research shows that massage therapy can significantly improve emotional well-being by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
A study by Field et al. found that patients who received massage therapy during treatment experienced notable reductions in anxiety levels. The calming touch of a trained therapist creates a safe space where patients can feel supported and cared for.
Enhancing Recovery and Rehabilitation
Massage therapy can play a crucial role in the recovery and rehabilitation process for breast cancer patients. After surgery or radiation, many patients experience changes in mobility and flexibility, particularly in the chest and shoulder areas. Therapeutic massage techniques can help restore range of motion and promote healing.
Incorporating techniques like myofascial release and deep tissue massage can aid in breaking down scar tissue and reducing tension. It is common to combine massage with physical therapy to help patients regain their strength and mobility. This helps give patients a feeling of control over their recovery.
Managing Lymphedema with Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphedema, a condition characterized by chronic swelling in the body due to lymph fluid buildup, is a common concern for breast cancer patients, especially after lymph node removal. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage technique designed to enhance lymphatic flow and reduce swelling.
Research indicates that MLD can be highly effective in managing lymphedema. A systematic review by Qiao et al. found that patients receiving MLD showed significant reductions in limb circumference, improving quality of life.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
Massage therapy can be a powerful tool for breast cancer patients, offering a range of physical and psychological benefits. By alleviating pain, reducing anxiety, and promoting overall well-being, it can play a vital role in the healing process.
If you or a loved one is navigating breast cancer, consider exploring massage therapy as a valuable part of your journey toward recovery. Massage therapy is safe for people with cancer and can be adapted by the therapist to suit individual needs, ensuring comfort and support throughout treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before any treatment and find a Registered Massage Therapist or Certified Lymphedema Therapist, who understands the unique needs of cancer patients, ensuring a safe and nurturing experience.
Eryka is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). Since graduating Eryka Callaghan has thoroughly immersed herself in working in women’s health. She has taken several courses on rehabilitation of breast cancer treatments and surgeries and has become a Vodder CLT. Eryka has also completed further courses on prenatal massage, breast massage and TMJ dysfunction and is certified in Laser and Ultrasound therapies. She is a member of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) and Registered Massage Therapy Association of Ontario (RMTAO). When she isn’t working you can find Eryka spending time with her family or crocheting.
Receive updates by email 
