Motion sickness devices
Motion sickness devices, particularly nausea relief wristbands, are designed to help manage nausea, especially in patients undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These wristbands, often referred to as ReliefBand or Sea-Band stimulators, apply acupressure to a specific point on the wrist, known as the Neiguan or P6 point, which may help suppress the trigger for nausea. While scientific proof of their effectiveness is limited, many users report experiencing relief when wearing these bands.
These devices are readily available over the counter at pharmacies, making them an accessible option for those seeking non-pharmaceutical remedies. Nausea is a common side effect of cancer therapies, affecting an estimated 80 percent of chemotherapy patients, and can lead to delays in receiving crucial treatment. Motion sickness devices provide a cost-effective, drug-free method to alleviate this discomfort, and they are generally safe for individuals of all ages, including pregnant or nursing women. However, they may not be effective for everyone, and it’s important for users to manage their expectations regarding the results. With advancements in technology, newer models offer improved battery life and customizable features, appealing to a broader range of preferences.
On this Page
Motion sickness devices
ALSO KNOWN AS: ReliefBand, Sea-Band stimulators, BioBands
DEFINITION: Nausea relief wristbands are economical devices that may decrease the nausea associated with cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Though these devices are not scientifically proven effective, many patients report relief of nausea when wearing a relief band on the wrist.
Delivery routes: Motion sickness relief bands are worn on the wrist and are available over the counter at pharmacies and drugstores.
Cancers treated: One common and uncomfortable side effect of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, is nausea and vomiting. These therapies are used as treatment for nearly all cancers.
Why used: Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy may feel a queasy feeling in the stomach (nausea), which can trigger vomiting, which is the forceful elimination of food or contents from the stomach. An estimated 80 percent of chemotherapy patients have this side effect. Many cancer patients delay therapy because of fear of nausea and vomiting, putting off life-saving treatment. Cancer patients who are receiving radiation therapy may experience a similar feeling of nausea that can lead to vomiting. Successful cancer treatment with chemotherapy or radiation depends on the patient’s ability to tolerate this side effect.
How these bands work: These bands are usually made of a soft, elastic material that clings to the wrist. When a cancer patient puts on a motion sickness relief band, a small bead embedded in the band applies acupressure by pressing down on the neiguan, or P6, acupressure point. When this point on the median nerves of the inner wrist is stimulated, the trigger for nausea is suppressed. Technology continues to advance in the motion sickness relief band market. New bands have longer battery life, are more fashionable, and have increasingly complex and customizable settings.
Risks and results: Acupressure wristbands offer a cost-efficient and drug-free way to manage nausea and vomiting during cancer treatment. The therapy is safe for all ages, from children to older adults, as well as for pregnant and nursing women. The only risk is that they will not work for all people. However, the cost to try this therapy is minimal and does not require a doctor’s prescription.
Bibliography
“Acupressure for Nausea and Vomiting.” Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 23 June 2022, www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/acupressure-nausea-and-vomiting. Accessed 14 June 2024.
"Clinical Roundup: Selected Treatment Options for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting." Alternative and Complementary Therapies, vol. 18.3, 2012, pp. 162–67.
Suh, Eunyoung Eunice. "The Effects of P6 Acupressure and Nurse-Provided Counseling on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Patients with Breast Cancer." Oncology Nursing Forum, vol. 39.1, 2012, pp. E1–E9.
Molassiotis, Alexander, et al. "The Effectiveness of Acupressure for the Control and Management of Chemotherapy-Related Acute and Delayed Nausea: A Randomized Controlled Trial." Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, vol. 47.1, 2014, pp. 12–25.
“Nausea and Vomiting Related to Cancer Treatment (PDQ®).” National Cancer Institute, 20 July 2023, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/nausea/nausea-hp-pdq. Accessed 14 June 2024.
University of Rochester Medical Center. “Wrist Bands Can Ease Cancer Nausea, Especially For Patients Who Expect Them To Work.” ScienceDaily, 29 Aug. 2003, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/08/030829071821.htm. Accessed 14 June 2024.