Medicine Hands: Massage Therapy for People with Cancer

A practical book written for both health professionals and the layperson, this revised guide deconstructs common myths about the useof massage in cancer treatment. Reviewing literature that shows cancerto be causedby genetic mutation and the influence of hormones, the opening discussionemphasizes that mechanical action such as massage does notbreak tumors open orcause them to spread. The book purports that the real medical issues for massage therapists center on ameliorating the discomfort oftreatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. The topics covered include massage in hospitals, in respite care, for the dying, and for exhausted caregivers, with appendices summarizing research on oncology patients and massage. Charts for the adjustmentofmassage techniques according to the treatment a patient is undergoing are also included.