After very personal cancer journeys with family and dear friends from 2010, I began treating people with cancer. In 2020 I decided to embark into formal Oncology massage trainings. In 2022 I completed advanced trainings with Oncology massage.
It continues to fascinate me at the difference made to people’s wellness by receiving this type of massage. In the early days of my massage career there was no fear around giving or receiving massage if you had cancer. Over the years, it has turned into a more general concern that massage could increase the risk of cancer cells spreading to other parts of the body? There is absolutely no evidence that this occurs.
I have only ever witnessed positive results and many scientific studies have shown that Oncology Massage is effective in reducing symptoms such as stress, pain, anxiety, depression, nausea and fatigue in people who have had chemotherapy or surgery for cancer.
I always make the client is as comfortable as possible and we work with many props. I have a massage chair for those who do not want to lay on their chest or be in a prone position. There are many sponges, cushions, towels, soft music and a room temperature suitable for the client.
The massage style itself is slow light strokes working with the fascia, engaging the relaxation response. It is a beautiful experience where you will feel supported, knowing your therapist is aware of the contraindications to specifically tailor the massage to your needs.
You are welcome to be treated while you are on chemotherapy or radiation, your massage will be adjusted to suit around your program, ports or other devices that maybe attached to you. Some people who have had chemotherapy experience tingling in their hands or feet, peripheral neuropathy. This is often helped with massage. Radiation, we will not be working within a hand distance of the direct radiation site or use any lotions or oils in that area until some weeks after your last treatment.
Oncology massage adjusts pressure, speed, duration and the direction of strokes to provide a safe session for a person with cancer at any stage of the disease. It is particularly helpful in reducing lymphedema, swelling caused by a build-up of
lymph fluid. Manual lymphatic drainage knowledge is essential and to follow these protocols.
Having a regular massage means someone else is keeping an objective eye on the affected limb/area to assess changes. Comprehensive notes are kept, and some cases are escalated if there are any signs of trauma, heat, redness, tenderness or swelling.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) also helps to maintain mobility and flexibility and relieves discomfort and tightness in the affected areas. Scarring techniques have also been very successful, and the reduction of cording equally fascinating and so quick to disperse.
I personally like to give some home-care instructions to my clients, I find if they give their areas a lot of love and do the self-massage or scarring techniques at home, beneficial results can occur much faster.
What is Oncology massage?
Oncology massage is a gentle safe and effective touch. It is calming and nurturing working to a cellular level, bringing the client into balance and homeostasis. Supports anyone with cancer, a history of cancer or in a fragile state of health.
Oncology massage safely addresses the needs of a cancer client, with specialised therapists to understand the science and pay close attention to the physical, emotional and psychological needs of the client during diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivorship or palliative care.
Oncology massage is mindful, intentioned massage that is adapted to suit the needs of and to work safely with the person who has cancer.
Oncology massage is a therapeutic form of massage provided by specifically trained therapists to identify the unique and special needs of people with cancer and perform a safe and supportive massage in a medical, wellness or private setting.
Oncology massage is a gentle, mindful touch with a specifically trained Oncology massage therapist who will adapt their massage techniques to work safely with clients living with cancer and other degenerative illness.
HEADLINES
“oncology massage makes cancer less”
“oncology massage: easing the side-effects of cancer treatment”
“oncology massage offers a peaceful space to clients living with cancer”
“oncology massage provide supportive caring touch throughout YOUR cancer journey”
OM-Oncology Massage Training
OM Ltd is a not for profit training organisation, teaching massage therapists how to work safely and effectively with clients with Cancer. We encourage an interactive approach that involves all members of a client’s cancer care team. Our training is the only one of a kind in the world with a national standardised training program. We also fund ongoing support and mentoring to all therapist’s post training. Research, community awareness and regional and rural training for therapists are key goals. Our aim is to have OM available to anyone with cancer regardless of where they live.
Oncology Massage Limited | ABN: 47 163 001 045Not for Profit Charity with Deductible Gift Recipient Status Visit our website | Join us on Facebook