Effect of massage therapy for postsurgical mastectomy recipients

Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2012 Apr;16(2):121-4. doi: 10.1188/12.CJON.121-124.

Abstract

This quality improvement pilot study evaluated the effect of massage therapy on pain, anxiety, and overall well-being in women who received mastectomies at a busy hospital practice. Participants reported a significant reduction in pain, stress, and muscle tension, as well as an increase in relaxation. Oncology nurses should consider the feasibility of massage therapy as a valuable nonpharmcologic pain management strategy.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / nursing*
  • Breast Neoplasms / nursing
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Evidence-Based Nursing
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Massage*
  • Mastectomy / adverse effects*
  • Pain / nursing*
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Pilot Projects