Using massage and acupuncture to help control symptoms after cancer surgery

More data from the University of California, San Francisco in support of CAM in the care of cancer patients.

138 cancer patients undergoing surgery were assigned to receive usual care with or without massage and acupuncture during the first two days after surgery. Patients’ pain, nausea, vomiting, and mood were assessed at four time points.

Based on evaluations conducted over 3 days, adding massage and acupuncture to usual care lead to significantly less pain and depression.

The results fit with the reasons patients with cancer look to use CAM — reduce symptoms of psychological distress.

3/15/07 23:42 JR