Review Shows Effectiveness of Massage for Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Cancer

A team of researchers performed a systematic review to comprehensively evaluate the reliability of massage therapy for cancer patients with anxiety and depression.

In their rationale for conducting the review, the authors write that “Anxiety and depression, complications of cancer, are prevalent but often overlooked mental illnesses. Studies have demonstrated that massage therapy is useful in relieving anxiety and depression of cancer survivors. However, the mechanism is still unclear and no systematic review has provided sufficient evidence for the treatment.”

The researchers systematically evaluated literature from PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, Wanfang, Chongqing VIP, CNKI and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database from the establishment of the databases to June 1, 2020. Only randomized controlled trials on massage for cancer survivors with anxiety and depression, regardless of language and publication status, were included.

The study concludes that, despite the lack of a clear clinical mechanism of action, “massage therapy can be effective in easing mood and reducing cancer-related symptoms, including depression, anxiety pain, fatigue, and so on.”

Read the full study at https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000022262.

Category: 

News

Utah Proposes Rules for Lower Tiers of Massage Licensure

The proposed rules establish educational training, supervisory roles, examinations, renewal requirements, and unprofessional conduct for massage assistants and massage assistants-in-training. Express your thoughts and suggestions for how you think these massage therapy lower-licensing tiers should be regulated in Utah before December 15.

Vacancies on the Oregon Massage Board

There are two seats open to licensed massage therapists. You must be nominated by a massage organization for a vacancy, and ABMP can help nominate you. Let us know if you're interested and find out how to apply!

Massage School Programs at Risk Across the Country

The US Department of Education issued final rules on October 31 that will likely greatly impact clock-hour programs in states with minimum clock-hour requirements for licensure or certification, including massage therapy. The new rule is flawed and, if not changed, will cause devastating collateral damage to schools, instructors, students, and the public. Find out how you can advocate!

Blog

Benefits

Featured ABMP Discount Partner: MassageBook

Save time, stress less, and make an honest living improving lives with the only practice management software purpose-built for the independent massage therapist.

Please note: We have recently updated our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Learn more...