Although the purposeful use of touch has significance for all patients, it has particular significance for patients with far advanced disease. When curative treatment is no longer appropriate, the emphasis of interventions shifts from cure to palliation and symptom control, and comfort measures assume greater significance. Touch is a powerful way of facilitating communication and enhancing psychological and physical comfort. This paper reviews some of the studies which point to the significance of touch in palliative care and suggests that systematic forms of touch, such as gentle massage, should be explored further for the potential benefits they may have for patients.
Nordshow M. , Bierman W.The influence of manual massage on muscle relaxation: effect on trunk flexion. Journal of American Physical Therapy Association1962; 42(10): 653-57.
22.
De Crosta T.Relieving pain: four noninvasive ways you should know more about. Nursing Life1984; 4(2): 28-33.
23.
Longworth J.Psychophysiological effects of slow stroke back massage in normotensive females. Advances in NursingScience1982; 4(4): 44-61.
24.
Woody F.The use of massage in facilitating holistic health. Charles C Thomas Pub, 1980.
25.
Sims S.Slow stroke back massage for cancer patients. Occasional Paper. Nursing Times1986; 82(13): 47-50.
26.
McCorkle R.Nonobstructive measures in clinical nursing research. In: Tiffany R ed. Cancer nursing update. London: Cassell, 1981 : 20-26.
27.
McNair D., Lorr M.An analysis of mood in neurotics. J Abnormal Soc Psychol1964; 69(6): 620-27.
