A systematic review of 203 research articles related to the usefulness of complementary therapies to manage treatment side effects and improve quality of life was published recently in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute Monographs. The study found that there is substantial research to support the benefits of massage, yoga and energy conservation techniques for stress reduction, anxiety, depression, fatigue and improved quality of life. The report concludes that these interventions are safe, effective and useful to be included in clinical practice guidelines.
Massage therapy has been shown to be a benefit to breast cancer survivors, and the benefits last long after the massage session. This month, TurningPoint’s massage therapists, who are experts in the field of massage for patients going through breast cancer treatment, will lead an interesting and informative education event on massage and breast cancer
Greenlee et al. Clinical practice guidelines on the use of integrative therapies as supportive care in patients treated for breast cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr. 2014 Nov;2014(50):346-58.
