Shiatsu and cancer

Shiatsu is a non invasive therapy originating from Japan. It uses a combination of kneading, pressing, tapping and stretching techniques. These gentle techniques aim to reduce tension and re energise the body. 

Summary

• Shiatsu works with the body's energy flow, known as Ki or Qi (pronounced chee).

• It uses acupressure to release tension and bring balance to the body.

• It can help to lift your mood and make you feel relaxed.

Research into shiatsu for cancer

There is no scientific evidence that shiatsu can cure or prevent any type of disease, including cancer.

We also need more research to find out how it can help people with cancer control symptoms and side effects. Most of the studies that have been done to date are small. 

There has been general research into shiatsu and acupressure. Acupressure is one of the techniques used in shiatsu practice. They are both based on the meridian system of Traditional Chinese Medicine and use the same pressure points.

A very small observational study (21 patients) in 2017 looked at giving shiatsu to cancer patients in a day hospital. They found that shiatsu helped the patients feel more relaxed, have an improved feeling of well being and they experienced improved quality of sleep.

A word of caution

Shiatsu is generally considered safe. Just make sure that your practitioner has undergone proper training. It is fine to ask how many years training they have had and how long they have been practising. 

This page is due for review. We will update this as soon as possible.