Individual therapies
Massage is an ancient therapy. It works by stroking, kneading, tapping or pressing the soft tissues of the body.
Summary:
Massage therapy has been used for centuries.
There are several types of massage - ranging from soft and gentle to vigorous and brisk.
There is no scientific evidence that massage can treat cancer.
There is no scientific evidence that massage can treat cancer. But it is commonly used to help people feel more relaxed. It might help people cope with their cancer and symptoms.
Trials have been carried out to find out whether massage can help people with cancer. Most of the studies are small or have limitations to the trial design.
Last reviewed: 06 Sept 2022
Next review due: 06 Sept 2025
Find detailed information and research into some of the many different complementary and alternative therapies used by people with cancer.
A complementary therapy means you can use it alongside your conventional medical treatment. It may help you to feel better and cope better with your cancer and treatment. An alternative therapy is generally used instead of conventional medical treatment.
This section has information about the safety of complementary cancer therapies and alternative cancer therapies.
Find organisations, support groups, books, websites and other resources about complementary and alternative therapies.
Treatments can include surgery, radiotherapy and drug treatments (such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted cancer drugs). Find out about treatments and how to cope with side effects.
Search for the cancer type you want to find out about.
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What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.
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