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Therapeutic touch
One of the manual-healing methods often used for cancer patients is therapeutic touch. Developed by a nurse, and still taught to most nursing students in North America, the technique is a popular and long-used therapy. Contrary to its name, however, therapeutic touch involves no actual contact between therapist and patient.
The process involves a therapist, or "healer," who moves his or her hands just a few inches above a patient's body to remove "blockages" to the patient's "energy field." Critics of the method debunk its power. But other health professionals point to the stress relief provided as well as psychological benefits. The mere presence of the healer, and the concern and care given to the patient, provides an immeasurable positive boost.
Rhythmic massage
This "hands-on" method for a cancer patient's pain relief involves massaging areas near that pain. A patient's family member, friend, or a massage therapist uses a slow, circular motion with the bare hand or with the addition of warm oil, talcum powder, or hand lotion. Instead of a deep massage, some patients find brushing or stroking lightly more comforting.
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External Sources
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Pain Control: A Guide for People with Cancer and Their Families. Bethesda, MD: National Institutes of Health; 2000. US Dept of Health, Education, and Welfare publication NIH 00-4746.
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Rosenbaum, EH, Rosenbaum, I. Supportive Cancer Care: The Complete Guide for Patients and Their Families, Fourth Edition, Kansas City, Missouri: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2005.
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Dollinger M, Rosenbaum, EH, Tempero M., et al. Everyone's Guide to Cancer Therapy, Fourth Edition, Kansas City, Missouri: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2002.
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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