Mesothelioma Massage Alternative Remedy

Mesothelioma is a deadly disease caused by exposure to asbestos, and it has no cure at present. Additionally, the malady has a number of side effects that compromise the patient’s quality of life. Medical intervention is generally aimed at alleviating these symptoms in order to increase the patient’s span of life, as well as to help him bear the painful consequences. Apart from the trimodal approach for treating the tumor, doctors often recommend the use of alternative therapies to patients for management of mesothelioma. Massage is one such approach that has reportedly shown positive effects on those in pain and distress due to cancer and other serious diseases.

The process

Technically, massage is the art of manipulation of the soft tissues of the body by use of pressure, motion, and/or vibration. The act of rubbing and kneading of the body's soft tissue is termed as massage. When the muscles are squeezed and rubbed, the blood vessels inside dilate and contract by turns and enhance the blood flow. The circulation of the lymphatic fluid is also increased in like manner and the oxygen supply to various body parts becomes better. These effects create a feeling of well being, ease emotional stress and tension and promote both physical and emotional healing. As a result, this therapy has been in use since decades. Ailments like headache, backache, stiffness, joint pain, and even insomnia are known to benefit from massage therapy. The American Cancer Society promotes massage as a "universally beneficial" form of alternative therapy for cancer patients on their website. Among the popular types of massage, Swedish massage is well known and other Far Eastern techniques like Shiatsu and Thai massage are gaining ground.

Mesothelioma massage effects

Mesothelioma massage creates relaxation and has a snowball effect in encompassing many other symptoms and in this manner, contributes to better quality of life in a mesothelioma patient. In fact, some scientific evidence even supports the claim that massage enhances the immune system by increasing blood circulation. Further studies being conducted in this area will help in establishing the claim. There are some important safeguards, however, that need to be kept in mind before subscribing to mesothelioma massage therapy: Massage must only be performed by a licensed, experienced practitioner.

Massage may be harmful in some cases; as a result, it is advised not to use it immediately after mesothelioma surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Massage may cause bleeding, nausea and even painful bone fractures depending on the stage of a mesothelioma patient.

Massage in the area of a tumor is also not advisable as there is danger of disintegration of the mass and spread; increased blood flow in the affected area may help the tumor grow further.

Remember, massage is a mesothelioma palliative measure and does not propose a cure for this type of cancer.