Why Massage Therapy is an Important Resource for Hospitals

Massaging patients on a gurney with tubes running across the bed and around them might not seem like the ideal treatment set-up, but massage therapists who work in hospitals say it is one of the best clinical experiences a therapist can ever have.

In a recently published article entitled, “Massage is an "Invaluable Resource" for Hospitals,” the experts at MASSAGE Magazine write:

“The general public understands that massage is good medicine, and this is reflected in the growing use of massage therapy and energy work in U.S. hospitals,” adding that, according to research conducted in January 2017, 82 per cent of hospital patients claimed massage therapy was the most helpful form of hospital therapy.

Massage is becoming increasingly commonplace in intensive care units and cancer wards as well as delivery rooms and psychiatric hospitals.

“On a daily basis, the acute pain service sees firsthand the benefits that massage provides our patients, with improved mood, function and overall comfort,” said Lynn Anson, R.N., B.C., a pain management nurse at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics in Kansas City, Missouri within the article.

“When we ask them about their massage, they usually tell us the therapists are their favorite people to see–and their smiles tell all.”

Massage therapists have much to offer the hospital setting. With skilled touch and caring hearts, massage therapists are a natural fit. Massage therapists can support patients, families and hospital staff, where our services are badly needed. It is an exciting time to be learning, teaching and serving in these settings.