Massage Therapy for Cancer

(IMPACT Trial)

This trial explores whether massage therapy can reduce pain and anxiety in patients with gynecologic cancers undergoing infusion treatments like chemotherapy. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either massage therapy or be part of an attention control group during three consecutive infusion sessions. The trial aims to assess the feasibility of conducting this type of study and to measure the effects of massage. It suits patients with gynecologic cancer who are receiving infusion therapy for the first time and have not had any infusion treatments in the past two years. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance supportive care options.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on massage therapy for patients receiving infusion treatments, so it's best to discuss your medications with the trial coordinators.

Previous studies have shown that massage therapy is generally safe for cancer patients. Research indicates that massage effectively relieves cancer pain and improves health outcomes. Trained professionals rarely cause serious side effects. People receiving massage during cancer treatment often report less pain and better sleep. Importantly, no evidence suggests that massage therapy can cause cancer to spread, though avoiding direct pressure on tumors is advised. Overall, massage therapy is well-tolerated and considered a safe option for managing symptoms in cancer patients.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about massage therapy for cancer patients because it offers a non-invasive, holistic approach to alleviating symptoms like pain and anxiety, which are common side effects of the disease and its treatments. Unlike standard care options such as medication or radiation, which can have significant side effects, massage therapy focuses on enhancing well-being through physical touch and relaxation techniques. This approach is unique because it targets the whole body experience rather than just the disease itself, aiming to improve overall quality of life for patients.

Research shows that massage therapy can help reduce cancer pain and anxiety. In this trial, some participants will receive massage therapy, which studies have shown results in less pain and a better quality of life. For instance, one study found that massage therapy eased pain and improved the overall well-being of cancer patients. Another study showed that massage helped manage anxiety, which is common among cancer patients. Overall, the evidence suggests that massage therapy can be a useful addition to cancer treatment for improving comfort and emotional health.³⁶⁷⁸⁹