A recent study has shown that massage therapy can help advanced cancer patients. This study showed that massage can help in relieving the pain as well as mood change in advanced cancer patients. Depressed mood is one of the most common problems in cancer patients. However benefits were not long-lasting. This research showed that massage therapy could be used as a safe way to ease cancer patients' pain. This study was led by Dr. Jean S. Kutner of the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine.  

Researchers analyzed the data collected from 380 advanced cancer patients at 15 US hospitals. The study subjects were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups. The first group received up to six massage sessions over two weeks while the other group received sessions involving "simple touch." 

In the "simple touch" group’s case, a non-professional simply places a hand on particular areas of the patient's body like the shoulder blades and lower back. Patients in both groups reported immediate improvements in pain and mood. Researches found the massage group experienced greater benefits. 

Dr Jean S Kutner, MD, MSPH, Associate Professor of Medicine said: "This study is important because it shows massage is a safe and effective way to provide immediate relief to patients with advanced cancer."  

Researchers think that massage may interrupt the cycle of distress, offering brief physical and psychological benefits. Massage works physically as well as psychologically in the advanced cancer patients. It decreases inflammation and edema, increase blood and lymphatic circulation, and relax muscle spasms. It also promotes relaxation, release endorphins, and create a positive experience that distracts temporarily from pain and depression. 

Kutner said further research is needed to look at the potential benefits of massage for people with less-advanced cancer or with other serious illnesses. She added that attention should be paid to the potential benefits of simple touch as members of family can also give this therapy to patients. Simple human touch will help in improving physical and emotional well-being of advanced cancer patients.