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The Crucial Role of Massage Therapy in Breast Cancer Recovery

Recent research highlighted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) emphasizes the importance of massage therapy for individuals recovering from breast cancer. This spotlight comes in light of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to inform patients and caregivers about the numerous benefits that massage therapy offers. The findings suggest that massage therapy not only alleviates pain and anxiety but also improves overall quality of life for cancer survivors and those currently undergoing treatment.

Evidence Supporting Massage Therapy

A systematic review published in 2025 explored the effects of massage therapy on patients recovering from mastectomy. This comprehensive study analyzed 26 different studies involving a total of 1,522 participants. The results indicated that various massage techniques, such as manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, classic massage, foot massage, and the Cyriax technique, contributed to improved physical and emotional well-being.

Key improvements included a greater range of motion, reduction in arm swelling and lymphedema, enhanced relaxation, and elevated quality of life ratings among the individuals participating in the research. Such findings strongly advocate for the integration of massage therapy as a complementary approach during the post-operative recovery phase for mastectomy patients.

Alleviating Pain and Anxiety

Another systematic review and meta-analysis looked into seven clinical trials that focused specifically on how massage therapy can ease pain and anxiety in post-surgical breast cancer patients. Techniques examined included reflexology, myofascial release, and classic massage applied from the day of surgery through a 16-week post-operative period. The conclusions were striking: massage therapy played a significant role in reducing both pain and anxiety levels, reinforcing its efficacy as a non-pharmacological remedy for the emotional and physical distress faced by these patients.

Managing Lymphedema with Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Furthermore, a systematic review focused on assessing the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) in managing breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). The analysis reviewed 11 randomized controlled trials with 1,564 participants, comparing the effects of MLD against standard care and control treatments. The results were promising: MLD was found to significantly lower the incidence of lymphedema and reduce pain intensity among the subjects involved.

AMTA's Commitment to Integrative Care

Cindy E. Farrar, the National President of AMTA, emphasized the critical role of massage therapy in supporting individuals through every stage of breast cancer recovery. Her statement reflects a broader acknowledgment that ongoing research continues to substantiate massage therapy's holistic and supportive demeanor, championing it as a pivotal aspect of integrative care.

The AMTA aims to push forward the narrative on the necessity of massage therapy, investing in research, education, and public awareness to expand access to its benefits. The goal is to enhance both healing and the overall quality of life for patients and survivors alike.

About AMTA

The American Massage Therapy Association, the largest professional association for massage therapists, students, and schools, is dedicated to upholding the ethics and standards of the profession. With a commitment to public education on the benefits of massage and advocating for fair licensing procedures nationwide, AMTA remains at the forefront of the wellness conversation.

To locate a qualified massage therapist in your region, visit AMTA's Find a Massage Therapist Locator Service™, and discover how this holistic modality can benefits those on the journey of recovery from breast cancer.