Physical therapies

This section discusses eight physical therapies; massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, acupuncture, shiatsu, tai chi, qigong and yoga. These therapies are available to patients in some cancer hospitals for relieving symptoms and reducing anxiety. It is important that if you have these therapies outside the hospital, you always make sure the therapist or practitioner is trained and registered.

• Massage
• Aromatherapy
• Acupuncture
• Reflexology
• Shiatsu
• Tai chi and Qigong
• Yoga

Massage

Massage is one of the oldest therapies in existence. It is now often offered as part of cancer care in hospital wards, hospices and some GP surgeries.

Massage is a form of structured or therapeutic touch which can be used to relax, to relieve muscle pain and tension, and to bring comfort through contact with another human being. There are many different types of massage therapy. Some types are soft and gentle; other types are more vigorous and possibly uncomfortable.

Massage can help to reduce feelings of anxiety, hopelessness and despair. Some people worry that massage could cause spread of cancer cells, but research has shown that it is safe for people with cancer to have massage. However, it is important that the massage therapist avoids any area affected by the cancer.

Relatives or friends can be taught to massage the person who is ill, which can reduce anxiety and bring comfort to both people. Massage can be a form of communication between the massager and the patient, as well as relieving pain and muscle tension. As long as you are careful to avoid wounds or scars, vein thromboses (blood clots) and areas of tenderness, and to be particularly gentle if the cancer has spread to the bones, massage for people with cancer is very relaxing.

You can get more information about massage and finding a trained massage therapist from the General Council for Massage Therapy.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of scented natural oils extracted from flowers, plants or trees. The oils are thought to have therapeutic properties. They may be used during massage, but can also be used in special aromatherapy burners or in baths.

Different oils have different effects: for example, an aromatherapist may use cedarwood for a pleasant and relaxing effect, or rosemary for an invigorating and refreshing effect.

Some oils can have physical effects on the body, such as raising blood pressure, so it is important to tell the therapist about any medicines you take and give them all your medical details. If you are having conventional therapy for cancer, for example, chemotherapy, you should always check with your doctor before beginning aromatherapy treatment.

It is not always necessary to remove clothing to have massage or aromatherapy. Often hand and forearm massage or head and neck can be very relaxing.

For more detailed information about aromatherapy and to find a trained therapist, contact the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists; they have guidelines for aromatherpists working with people who have cancer.

You could also contact the International Federation of Aromatherapists or the Aromatherapy Consortium.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine. It uses thin, sterile acupuncture needles inserted just below the skin to affect the flow of energy in the body. As well as the circulatory and nervous systems in the body, in Chinese medicine there is also a system of life force (energy) channels. The energy that moves along the channels is known as chi.

Acupuncture needles are placed along points in the energy channels to help release the flow of chi and restore health and balance in the body. Acupuncture can help with all sorts of physical problems such as pain, nausea and a sore mouth, and can also help to reduce fear and anxiety.

A professional acupuncturist may be a member of a team working in a pain clinic. Some doctors are trained in acupuncture. Studies show that during acupuncture the body releases endorphins, natural chemicals which can relieve pain, relax muscles and increase feelings of well being. It may help to reduce hot flushes caused by cancer treatment for some women with breast cancer and men with prostate cancer.

Acupuncture is sometimes used to treat side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea. Seabands (acubands), which work on a similar principle, by applying pressure to a specific area of the wrist, may also be helpful.

You can get more information about acupuncture and finding a registered practitioner from the British Acupuncture Council or the British Medical Acupuncture Society.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a specialised form of foot or hand massage that is related to the Chinese practice of acupressure. The theory underlying this therapy is that different areas on the sole of the foot or palm of the hand represent and are connected to the body's internal organs.

Systematically putting pressure on points in the feet or hands is thought to stimulate the flow of energy along energy channels in the body. Some people find that symptoms such as pain, constipation and sickness can be relieved. Many people report that reflexology can help reduce tension and pain and may be able to help with some symptoms of advanced cancer and to improve energy levels.

You can get more information about reflexology and finding a registered practitioner from the Association of Reflexologists or the British Reflexology Association.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage. Like acupuncture it is based on the idea that good health depends on the balanced flow of energy through specific channels in the body called meridians. Pressure is placed on the appropriate meridians to help the person's energy regain its balance. The therapist may also gently stretch or massage areas of the body to reduce stiffness and soreness. Many people find shiatsu relaxing and re-energising, as well as easing pain and other symptoms.

You can get more information about shiatsu and finding a registered practitioner from The Shiatsu Society.

Tai chi and Qigong

Tai chi and qigong are two Chinese philosophies which aim to strengthen the vital force (chi) of the body.

Tai chi (pronounced tie chee) is an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on building strength, balance and flexibility through slow, fluid movements combined with mental imagery and deep breathing. It can improve people's general health.

Qigong (pronounced chee goong) – sometimes spelled 'Chi Kung' – is another Chinese exercise system. Through individual mental and physical exercises, practitioners build up their health and prevent illness by combining discipline of mind, body and the body's 'Qi' (vital force).

Both Tai chi and qigong can help generate a sense of well being and peace and can reduce pain. The slow, graceful movements increase strength and flexibility and improve balance and circulation. They may also relieve some of the side effects of cancer treatment.

You can get more information about Tai Chi or Qigong and local classes from: www.taichifinder.co.uk and www.qi.org

Yoga

There are many different schools and styles of yoga, but they all encourage balanced and holistic development through the practice of yoga postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and relaxation techniques.

The Sanskrit word yoga is translated as union between mind, body and spirit, and the practice aims to lead to a better balance of mind, body and spirit. Some types of yoga involve very gentle stretching, movement and meditation. Other types of yoga may involve more vigorous physical movement and dietary changes.

Some hospitals offer yoga as part of their complementary therapy programmes.

You can also get information about local classes from the British Wheel of Yoga.