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Darcelle Obodiak

Benefits of Relaxation in Palliative Care

There are many different types of massage in the health care industry. This blog will specifically speak on relaxation massage, also known as general Swedish massage. The purpose of this technique is to relax the nervous system and create a sense of general well-being. I can think of no one more deserving of this service than a palliative care patient.

Photo from Wix.

There are many benefits that relaxation massage can have on a palliative care patient. Provided in this blog is only a few benefits, but keep in mind the impacts this therapy has on the patient is not limited to the list you see here.


On a basic physical level, relaxation massage can offer pain relief to help the patient alleviate physical pain and discomfort they may be experiencing. Regardless of the source of this pain, whether it is from their illness, the medications they may be taking, bedsores or how they must position themselves physically for day-to-day comfort. Chances are their muscles are experiencing tension, stiffness, and/or inflammation from the diagnosis, treatment, or both. Regardless of how they got their pain, or where it is experienced in the body, relaxation massage can help alleviate this.


Stress reduction is a benefit to anyone, let alone a person going through a palliative diagnosis. A person who has been diagnosed with a palliative illness can experience elevated levels of stress most of us cannot understand, unless in that position. Stress and anxiety go hand in hand from the time of their first inclination that something is “off” with their body, to the testing and eventual diagnosis. The body alone is dealing with prominent levels of stress and anxiety.


Add on to that the treatment plan and medications that follow. Massage helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall mental well-being. Studies have shown relaxation massage techniques can lower the central nervous systems “fight or flight” response. Once the nervous system lets down its guard the muscles follow suit, and the patient can feel an increase sense of relaxation.

It is all connected. When there is relief in pain, there is relief in stress which in turn causes improved sleep quality. Many palliative care patients struggle with sleep. Whether it be insomnia, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. By inducing a state of relaxation, massage promotes better sleep quality, inducing relaxation and reducing physical and mental tension.


All in all, relaxation massage has also been reported to enhance an overall sense of well-being. The patient feels more comfortable, at ease and connected with their body. This then improves their quality of life.


On a physical scale, massage has been reported to increase circulation. This is especially helpful to those experiencing circulation issues due to their diagnosis and/or treatment.


Relaxation massage has been shown to provide emotional support to the patient. The massage provides a safe, nurturing environment where the patient can relax, unwind and process their emotions. The therapist can offer comfort, emotional support and be a “safe, unbiased” person during this challenging time.

By providing physical, emotional and mental benefits the client can feel a sense of comfort and perhaps even peace during their journey.

 

 

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