Massage is a way of providing support to the body to improve overall sense of wellbeing, promote relaxation and improve immune health, while reducing muscular aches and tension.
This is achieved by applying long, slow, gentle stokes to the body with light pressure, increasing blood flow which carries oxygen and nutrients to feed and maintain muscular health. While applying these strokes, we are also sedating the nervous system switching from “fight and flight” to “rest and repair”
Each treatment is adapted to fit the individual needs and is generally preferred to be applied to the back, neck and shoulders. However, it can be beneficial when applied to the hands, arms and legs.
At Velindre, massage is generally used within our outpatient appointments due to the practicalities of providing such a treatment on the ward and chemotherapy units.
It should also be noted that massage may not always be appropriate for an individual's needs.
Complementary therapy should be used alongside any conventional medical treatment and not in place of.