Dr. Corsa explains how studies have demonstrated that massage can offer some health benefits for people with cancer. She explains to her patients that you are being treated for breast cancer, it's important to find a licensed massage therapist who has experience with breast cancer patients. Dr. Corsa reccommentds that when talking with a potential massage therapist, ask questions about his or her background and if they have ever worked with breast cancer patients. At Premier Therapy Solutions, Dr. Corsa trains her staff to work with cancer patients and help through their recovery period.
Studies have shown that massage seems to offer both physical and emotional benefits for women with breast cancer. A 2003 study at the University of Minnesota compared the effects of massage healing touch (a practice in which the therapist's hands are above or very lightly touching the body) with the caring presence of a doctor or nurse (without any touch therapies) in 230 people who had cancer. In this study, researchers found that, while both healing touch and massage lowered anxiety and pain, massage also reduced the need for pain medicine.
In a 5-week study at the University of Miami in 2003, massage therapy and progressive muscle relaxation were compared in 58 women with Stage I and II breast cancer. Both groups reported feeling less anxious, and the massage group also reported feeling less depressed. The massage group also showed increased levels of a brain chemical called dopamine, which helps produce a feeling of well-being. In addition, for the massage group, there was an increase in protective white blood cells that help boost the immune system (called natural killer cells) from the first to the last day of the study. There is no evidence that massage can cause an existing cancer to spread.
Premier Therapy Solutions in Boca Raton, Florida offers pre and post-operative therapies for patients. Dr. Lisa Corsa holds both a Doctorate and Masters Degree in Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University, graduating at the top of her class with highest honors. In addition, she holds degrees from the University of Florida in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training, Biomechanics & Kinesiology and Telecommunications. She is affiliated and holds memberships with The American Physical Therapy Association, National Strength & Conditioning Association, The National Association of Athletic Trainers and The American Council on Exercise.
For more information visit www.premierptsolutions.com or email info@premierptsolutions.com
