Randomized control trial evidence for the benefits of massage and relaxation therapy on sleep in cancer survivors —a systematic review

ConclusionWhile massage therapy provided by massage therapists may have some potential for improving sleep outcomes for cancer survivors, there is no such current evidence regarding relaxation therapy.Implications for Cancer SurvivorsCancer survivors who experience sleep disturbances may benefit from regular sessions with a massage therapist. However, future studies should examine the long-term feasibility of massage therapist –delivered services, particularly for cancer survivors with limited finances, and determine if benefits can be obtained if massage is provided by non-certified individuals. Relaxation therapy appears to be safe for cancer survivors, but future RCTs involving larger sample sizes need to be conducte d to better determine its feasibility and efficacy.
Source: Journal of Cancer Survivorship - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research