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​What is Oncology Massage 

Please make sure prior to booking your appointment, that your oncologist has agreed for you to receive massage
Oncology Massage is the adaptation of massage techniques to safely nurture the body of someone during a cancer diagnosis, during medical treatment, when in remission, through palliative care with a terminal diagnosis and through survivorship.
 
Oncology Massage is a non-invasive technique, specifically adapted for individuals of all ages and all types of cancer.
Many cancer treatments require long-term massage modifications.
If you are undergoing cancer treatment, or have a history of cancer, request an oncology massage-trained therapist.
 

Massage adaptations are imperative to take account of the following:

 

  • Low blood cell counts

  • Blood clots

  • Bone metastases

  • Radiation or surgery

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea

  • Bone pain

  • Removal of lymph nodes

  • Lymphoedema - for lymphoedema services, please see information on the following site: www.lymphoedemasupportclinic.com

  • Medications

  • Medical devices (venous access devices, drains, pumps, shunts, collection bags)

  • Delayed effects of treatment

 

As with most massages, oncology massage will be tailored to you, the individual client. However, several things may be different from a more typical massage, for example:

 

  • A detailed registration form will be completed, including details of the type of cancer you have (or had), your treatment history, your current treatment regime, any symptoms or side-effects you are experiencing, and any medical devices or lymph node involvement you may have.

  • A lighter pressure massage than a normal massage.

  • Any area of your body that has compromised lymph nodes will be treated very mindfully. 

  • Depending on issues specific to your body, the position you lie in will be modified to accommodate any surgical or radiation sites or specific medical devices you may have. 

  • If you have low blood counts, you may receive a specific gentle technique that addresses the potential for easy bruising.

 

Clinical research shows that massage can improve cancer treatment side effects, namely perception of pain and anxiety. Massage benefits may also include:

 

  • Reduced pain and fatigue

  • Decreased anxiety

  • Less nausea

  • Improved sleep

  • Eased feelings of isolation

  • Greater sense of well-being

  • Improve Peripheral Neuropathy

 

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If you are at risk of Lymphoedema

 

Standard treatments for cancer are surgery or radiation. These procedures may directly affect lymph nodes in the treatment area. 

Oncology Massage Therapy integrates safety protocols into all massages when lymph nodes have been compromised. For this reason, you should only see an experienced oncology massage therapist if you have had lymph nodes removed. If you already have secondary lymphoedema, you may still receive an oncology massage, however you are also advised to contact a therapist or nurse who is qualified in manual lymphatic drainage.  For more information on treatment for lymphoedema please see my website www.lymphoedemasupportclinic.com

 

 

 

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