Breast Cancer Survivors’ Messages about the Use of Massage Therapy

Background. The purpose of this study was to explore qualitative comments about massage therapy (MT) from breast cancer survivors. Patients suffering from cancer commonly use complementary alternative therapies for treatment and recovery, including massage therapy. Quantitative studies have shown that MT may reduce distress and enhance symptom control in cancer patients. Methods. Four focus groups were conducted. Specific queries were identified for the group discussions to include: (1) prior massage experiences, (2) research study enrollment process, (3) MT intervention, and (4) the impact of MT. Participants also completed a 14-question survey, answering with forced-choice responses and ranking responses utilizing a four point Likert scale. Results. Themes emerged from the analysis including physical and mental benefits of MT, control of decision-making during treatment, and positive implications of non-invasive treatment. Conclusions. Efforts should be directed toward treatment that allows patients a sense of “control” and “empowerment.” KJM 2009; 3(1):2-12.