Disclaimer: “We are not medical professionals, and the following information should not be considered medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before engaging in any of the practices in this article.”
According to a new study, body massage in children with cancer has significantly reduced their pain. Massage can be a powerful ally in reducing pain for cancer patients, especially children. Massage can substantially lessen pain and improve the overall quality of life.
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What is Pediatric Massage?
Pediatric massage is the complementary and alternative medicine that uses massage therapy, or “the manual manipulation of soft tissue intended to promote health and well-being” for children and adolescents.
It aims to lessen suffering, worry, loneliness, and hospitalized kids in the hospital or give a life-limiting medical diagnosis. Pediatric massage therapy considers each child’s unique physical development, cognitive development, and healthcare requirements into consideration.
This type of massage has been used for centuries by parents and caregivers to comfort their sick children. It helps to promote relaxation, relieve pain, reduce stress and tension, improve sleep quality, and stimulate circulation.
The Study
A new study published in the journal “Pediatrics” found that massage can significantly reduce pain and relieve children with cancer. The study highlighted the need for more research into the therapeutic effects of massage for young cancer patients.
The study involved 28 children aged 6-18 who were receiving chemotherapy treatment for various types of cancer. All participants experienced significant pain related to their pain, and all had previously tried pharmaceutical treatments without adequate relief.
Half of the participants received weekly massages during the study period, while the other half did not. At the end of eight weeks, those who had received massages reported significantly lower pain levels than those who had not received any massage therapy.
The researchers concluded that massage therapy effectively reduces pain in children with cancer when used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes regular physician visits and physical activity.
Additionally, they found that massage can benefit these young patients’ physical and emotional well-being. Specifically, they noted that it could help reduce anxiety and improve sleep—essential to recovery from serious medical conditions like cancer.
Benefits Of Body Massage In Children With Cancer
Children with cancer can benefit greatly from massage therapy. With its ability to reduce stress, pain, and fatigue, massage therapy can make a big difference in children suffering from this devastating illness.
Massage can be a practical part of a comprehensive care plan for these children and their families. Massage therapy’s physical and emotional benefits can help improve overall well-being.
Massage therapy also has psychological benefits when treating children with cancer. Research shows that regular sessions with licensed massage therapists can reduce anxiety and depression associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment and improve mental clarity.
By reducing stress levels and increasing relaxation, this specialized form of therapy allows children to cope better with their illness while enjoying physical activities such as playing or going outside.
Additionally, therapeutic massage is beneficial in decreasing nausea caused by chemotherapy treatments and helping promote better circulation throughout the body, enhancing nutrition delivery across cells and tissues more efficiently, thus improving overall health outcomes for these children.
For parents who are uncomfortable having their child receive a massage from an outsider, there are plenty of resources available through local support groups or wellness centers that offer classes so parents can learn how to perform therapeutic massages at home for their child in need.
They are instructing these parents on how to give proper massages not only teaches them how to provide comfort for their child but also gives them an outlet for bonding during this challenging period in their family’s life straight from the comfort of home.
It’s essential for parents of children dealing with cancer to consult their doctor first before starting any new treatment plan, including massage therapy services. A doctor will ensure that your child receives safe, professional guidance regarding determining what techniques would work best based on the individual needs and age required with each specific patient.
Overall there are many advantages when it comes to utilizing therapeutic massages to help treat pediatric cancer patients properly, whether through parental instruction or professional services provided by qualified professionals who specialize in providing safe and effective symptom relief.
Every case is different, so always seek medical advice and decisions about your or your loved one’s well-being.
Types of Massage Therapy For Children With Cancer
“Again, please consult your medical professional before proceeding with any of the treatments below.”
Massage therapy is an effective way to help children manage cancer’s physical and emotional side effects. From Swedish massage to sports massage, here are some of the types of massage therapy available to children with cancer:
- Swedish Massage: Also known as a “relaxation” or “classic” massage, this type of massage uses long, gentle strokes with light pressure. It helps relieve stress and encourages relaxation.
- Chair Massage: A chair massage is a short session (typically 10-15 minutes) that focuses on the hands, arms, neck, shoulders, and back. It is easily transportable and can be done in almost any setting, making it ideal for children receiving treatments at hospitals or clinics.
- Deep Tissue Massage: This type of massage releases knots, tension, and muscle spasms. Pressure is applied deeply into muscles to relieve aches and pains associated with cancer treatments.
- Sports Massage: This type of massage focuses on prevention and relief from the cancer pain associated with athletic activities. It helps reduce inflammation in the affected area which can help children cope with symptoms related to their cancer treatment, like fatigue.
- Reflexology: This type mimics traditional acupuncture but without needles. Pressure is applied in specific spots that correspond sharply to different areas within the body, helping promote circulation and release endorphins which helps reduce pain naturally.
These are just a few different types of massages available to children with cancer; there are many other forms depending on individual needs, such as shiatsu, aromatherapy, and myofascial release techniques.
Speak with your medical provider or an experienced masseuse if you have questions about which would work best for your child’s situation.
Conclusion
This newly published research about massage for children with cancer strengthens what previous studies have already found: massage increasingly appears to be a safe and effective method of relieving pain and providing comfort for children dealing with this severe illness.
While more research is needed to determine the long-term benefits of massage therapy for pediatric oncology patients, this study provides hope for those facing a difficult diagnosis. It proves yet again that many holistic approaches to healing are available today.
Pediatric massage can be a powerful tool in managing pain and improving the quality of life for children with cancer. This study shows that it is safe and effective and should be considered an essential part of any treatment plan.
Additional research is needed to explore further the potential benefits of massage therapy for children with cancer. However, this study provides promising evidence that massage can play a significant role in pain management and overall quality of life for these children.
By considering all possible options, including massage, children with cancer can experience enhanced comfort during their treatment process and beyond.
