Year: 2012
Type: article
Abstract: A 3-month pilot was performed offering massage therapy to postoperative breast surgical patients. A certified massage therapist approached patients the day after surgery. Massage duration was determined by discussion between the therapist and patient. Massage was offered at a fee of $1/minute and billed through the institutional billing system. Pain, anxiety and tension levels were documented pre and post massage. Patients completed an anonymous survey regarding their experience. Of 64 patients seen during the pilot, 46 patients (72%) elected to have massage. Eighteen patients declined due to: cost (n=2), too ill (n=3), not interested (n=11), dismissed (n=2). The mean duration of therapy was 23 minutes (range 8 – 45). Patients reported massage as very effective for: stress relief (76%), relaxation (82%), pain relief (64%), and somewhat effective for: stress relief (21%), relaxation (18%) and pain relief (31%). In terms of general feelings of wellness, 83% of patients reported massage as very effective. Patient comments regarding the experience were positive. Seventy- nine percent of patients returned post massage surveys and 100% were satisfied (91% very satisfied and 9% satisfied) and 100% would recommend postoperative massage to other surgical patients. A massage therapy program can be integrated into a busy surgical unit for postoperative breast surgery patients and may complement surgical therapy to assist with pain, anxiety, relaxation, and overall well-being in the postoperative setting.
Authors: N Drackley, B Bauer
Institution: Mayo Clinic
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,990
OpenAlex ID: W2052692356