We know massage will make us feel better, less stressed, and more relaxed. But what about those times you feel to unwell to feel good? Well, as far as chemotherapy induced nausea goes, this article shows that even that yucky cancer therapy side effect may be helped holistically. Take your meds, then call to book a massage!
This study looked at 82 persons receiving highly nausea producing chemotherapy for the first time. They gave 41 persons three twenty minute foot massages. One was 20 minutes prior to the chemotherapy infusion, once during the infusion, and one just after. The 41 person comparison group received no massage. Both groups took standard anti-nausea medications.
Results showed a significant nausea reducing effect in the study participants that received the massage. That is good news! This certainly shows the benefit of having massage inside Cancer Center infusion centers. It may also help you in the few days after receiving chemotherapy, as some nausea producing side effects linger beyond the infusion day(s).
Massage is a great stress reliever…You get to shut off all the things that buzz and chime and aggravate you, and really have some time where you, and your relaxation and self-care are the main focus. Music, silence, warmth, massage. All the cranky dissolves away. And maybe some of the nausea can follow…
Reference: Asha C, Manjini KJ, Dubashi B. Effect of Foot Massage on Patients with Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Caring Sci. 2020 Aug 18;9(3):120-124. doi: 10.34172/jcs.2020.018. PMID: 32963979; PMCID: PMC7492965.