Massage May Relieve Pain, Help Mood

Massage therapy may quickly relieve pain and lift mood among cancer patients, researchers say. The study included 380 people with advanced cancer. They were randomly assigned to receive massage or simple touch. People who got massages reported quick pain relief. But it did not last a long time. Massage may decrease inflammation and fluid buildup, improve blood flow and relax muscles. It also can release endorphins to improve mood. The study appeared September 16 in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.