Massage Therapy
Place … of wellness offers full body massages and relaxation chair massages to MD Anderson patients and their family members. Full-body massage is fee-for-service. Call 713-794-4700 for details or to schedule an appointment.
Outpatients may self-refer for brief relaxation massage, but must obtain a physician release before scheduling a full-body massage.
Inpatients may self-refer to receive bedside brief relaxation massage services in their room.
Caregivers/family members may self-refer for chair massages or full body massages. Full-body massage is fee-for-service, but chair massages are free.
Certain criteria may prohibit patients from receiving massage therapy.
Patients with certain medical conditions must consult with their physician and the massage therapist prior to any massage session. Some patients are not eligible for massage therapy, but others may be eligible with appropriate restrictions on pressure, site and position.
Massage involves the stroking, kneading or stretching of muscle groups. Evidence shows that massage can benefit many cancer patients and caregivers, both physically and emotionally. Research suggests that stress-reduction programs tailored to the cancer setting, such as massage, may help patients cope with the side effects of treatment and improve quality of life after treatment. The use of massage therapy for cancer patients has become more common in recent years as a way to reduce pain, anxiety and nausea.
Massage is traced back to traditional Chinese medicine, but has been used throughout history in Japan, India, Native America, Egypt, Greece and Rome. Hippocrates even recommended the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, massage is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs and has proven beneficial for relieving stress, tension and many chronic ailments.