Cancer Survivor
When you have received a cancer diagnosis, your first thoughts about treatment are surgery radiotherapy and chemo therapy. However, many treatment centres acknowledge the addition of a holistic approach gives the best outcome. One of the most well known holistic modalities is Oncology Massage.
Oncology massage has emerged as a supportive therapy that aims to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatments, enhance overall well-being, and provide a comforting touch during a challenging time.
Oncology massage is a complementary and holistic approach to cancer care, focusing on the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of well-being. By providing a healing touch, this specialized form of massage therapy offers a valuable means of support for individuals on their cancer journey.
Understanding Oncology Massage
Oncology massage is a specialized form of massage therapy tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals living with cancer. Trained oncology massage therapists possess a deep understanding of cancer treatments, side effects, and the varying stages of the disease. This knowledge allows them to adapt traditional massage techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of cancer patients.
Oncology Massage acknowledges the inflammatory condition the body is in during and after Cancer treatment. Therefore pressures are lighter and slower with whole hand contact.
Treatments are attuned to the energy and emotional level of the client.
Direction of strokes is away from where lymph nodes are removed and towards areas where lymph nodes are functional.
Benefits of Oncology Massage
- Pain Relief: Oncology massage employs gentle and targeted techniques to alleviate pain, tension and swelling in muscles and joints
- Stress, Anxiety and Depression Reduction: A cancer diagnosis can trigger intense emotions, leading to heightened stress and anxiety levels. Concerns experienced include tolerance to treatment, financial concerns, child care, other life commitments and threat to longevity. Oncology massage provides a calming and nurturing environment, promoting relaxation and reducing emotional distress where there are
- Improved Sleep Quality: Sleep disturbances are common among cancer patients. The soothing effects of massage can enhance sleep quality by reducing insomnia and promoting a sense of calm. When the fight flight freeze response is calmed (the sympathetic nervous system response) the parasympathetic nervous system helps re-instate rest and digest.
- Enhanced Circulation: Cancer treatments may impact circulation. Oncology massage employs techniques that improve blood and lymph circulation, aiding in the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Peripheral Neuropathy in hands and feet may also be soothed.
- Immune System Support: Massage has been linked to immune system enhancement. Some studies suggest that regular massage may contribute to a stronger immune response, which is particularly important for cancer patients.
- Scar Tissue Management: Surgeries and cancer treatments can result in scar tissue formation. Oncology massage and specialised Scar Tissue techniques can help manage and minimize the impact of scar tissue, promoting better mobility and comfort.
- Emotional Well-being: The emotional toll of cancer is undeniable. Oncology massage fosters a sense of connection, empathy, and understanding between the therapist and the patient. This emotional support can be profoundly beneficial for those navigating the challenges of cancer and improves quality of life.
- Fatigue and Brain Fog: Cancer treatment can cause fatigue during and after treatment that may not respond to rest and sleep. Gentle massage helps restore the body and mind.
Oncology Massage Therapists form a Treatment Plan unique to your needs. Specific Concerns include:
- Radiotherapy: Massage to areas exposed to Radiotherapy will be excluded during and for a short time after completion.
- Location of Ports, pumps, IV Lines, stomas or other implanted devices
- Location of Lymph node removal and Lymphedema determines direction and pressure of massage and elevation.
- Swelling after surgery or lymphedema after lymph nodes have been removed. Positional supports to help with comfort, lymph drainage, breathing and nausea.
- Location of cancer and tumours may influence exclusion areas.
- Location of Blood clots will indicate exclusion areas or pressure changes
- Medication cautions may impact pressure used eg bruising.
- Bone Cancer and Osteoporosis requires a light pressure
- Skin irritation from Chemo or Radiotherapy responds well to quality oils and lotions.
Other Cancer Safe Modalities :
- Lymphatic Drainage and Lymphedema management
- Reiki
- Cranio-Sacral Therapy
- Polarity Therapy
- Focussing
- Emothonal Freedom Technique (EFT)
- Hypnotherapy
- Havening
- Aromatherapy Massage
- Bowen Therapy
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional support
- Counselling and Psychology
- Meditation
Oncology Massage is a safe and supportive treatment complementing other medical approaches in the treatment of Cancer. Oncology Massage improves quality of life and is a holistic approach to caring the People on the Cancer Journey.
It is a privilege to partner in helping Patients feel connected, calm and cared for.