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Slow stroke back massage for cancer patients
Sims S
Nursing Times 1986 Nov 19-25;82(13):47-50
clinical trial
3/10 [Eligibility criteria: No; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: No; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: No. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

The results of a pilot study undertaken to examine the effects of gentle back massage on the perceived well-being of six female patients receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer are described. An experimental approach was taken, with pre- and post-measures of symptom distress and mood, using the subjects themselves as their own controls. The patients reported less symptom distress, higher degrees of tranquillity and vitality and less tension and tiredness following the back massage when compared with the control intervention. The small scale of the study and lack of statistically significant results limits the extent to which the findings can be generalised. They suggest, however, that gentle back massage may be beneficial for certan patients and that further research is warranted in this area.

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