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. I joined the team at Couch Wellness in March 2021 in Cairns and became the resident Oncology massage therapist. I am at the Wellness centre on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the time of writing.
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 in front of me.
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.
Currently I am available for Oncology massage in my city studio, Monday, Thursday and Friday with Couch Wellness visits available Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Should your loved one be in hospital or a palliative care unit, please get in touch directly as there is the possibility of mobile massage working bedside. I have a provider number and work with many of the “care package” providers, you may in fact be able to get your massage as part of a “care package”.
I am wishing everyone a healthy 2023. I am more than happy to help support you whether you have cancer now or previously, are a carer or a family member.
I believe in miracles and I have witnessed many. The student finds the teacher when he is ready. In Gratitude to all the clients that are allowing me to help them on their wellness quest.