It is important to highlight that the results came from an offical study done by the UK Spa Commission, and they were very quick to point out that they no not suggest using spa treatments as an alternative to traditional medicine. That said, the research results are an eye opener and suggest that people should be looking into as many forms as treatment as possible, rather than relying on just one.

Over 2500 participants were studied over a 4 year period, with varying types and severities of cancer. The results showed that those who partook in specialized spa days treatments over the course of 6 months were more likely to see an improvement in their condition than those who did not. In fact over 65% of those who had the treatments showed signs of improvement over the six months, compared to only 55% of who did not have treatments.

We had to be very careful about the types of treatments we prescribed stats Tony Lancer, Director of Studies. He pointed out that often cancer can be spread through the lymphatic system and so manipulation of areas around lymph glands can be dangerous to cancer sufferers. Additionally, some products used in traditional massage and skin care treatments can react badly with those used in chemotherapy. For these reasons massage was limited to localized areas and doctors were consulted on the ingredients in all skin care and beauty products used.

It is thought that the positive results for the patients were an effect of the relaxation that resulted from having the treatments such as a facial or pedicure etc. As the human body does not function well under prolonged periods of stress, Lancer suggests cancer recover is highly restricted when it is in a state of anxiety. The spa treatments offered a rest bite for the both the body and mind, which is thought to have resulted in a better response to the traditional medicines.