Complementary
Care & Support For People With Cancer
Cancer Patients Have More Specific Bodywork Needs
Cancer patients often have specific needs — areas of the body that have increased tenderness, stiffness, or pain. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or lymph node removal affect the amount of pressure and styles of movement that can be safely applied to affected areas of the body. Jen has had training specific to working with site restrictions in a safe manner. Asian Bodywork Therapy offers people with chronic illness more diverse bodywork options, such as Acupressure and Shiatsu.
Asian Bodywork Therapy
Asian Bodywork Therapy includes acupressure and traditional massage techniques whose focus goes beyond relaxation to address the health of the organs.
Acupressure is a wonderful adjunct therapy for cancer patients as it strengthens the internal organs and protects the body’s vital life force. Research has demonstrated that most acu-points are associated with immune stimulation, of various types, in the body.
Jen uses conscious movements and deep listening to promote harmony and help each client reclaim immunity. According to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center research has demonstrated that, “Gentle, conscious massage is not only safe but has demonstrated many beneficial effects.”
Increased Quality of Life
Acupressure
can provide the following
health benefits for those with cancer:
- Decreased nausea
- Decreased pain
- Moderation of some side effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and pharmaceuticals
- Improved appetite
- Improved sleep
- Deeper relaxation
- Increased immune function
- Stress reduction
- Increased stamina
A Comprehensive Approach
“Integrative Oncology Care” is the emerging link between medical doctors and alternative health practitioners working to support people with cancer. An Integrative Oncology Care program uses conventional treatments, such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy for primary care. Patients augment this by using acupressure, counseling, or massage to address the healing of their whole being.
“Complementary therapies are those that people use along with conventional medicine. Many of the therapies have been shown to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life by lessening the side effects of conventional treatments or providing psychological and physical benefits.”
—The American Cancer Society
Articles
on Acupressure and Oncology Care:
“Acupressure Relieves Nausea
in Chemotherapy Patients”
“Hands of Medicine: Oncology Patients Find Relief
in Bodywork”.
Copyright 2008-2010 Robin's Song Acupressure & Herbal Therapy
