Oncology Massage (massage for those living with cancer)
What is oncology massage?
​
Massage, in general, is the warming, kneading, stroking, rolling and pressing of the muscles and skin.
​
There are lots of different types of massage, each with different origins and aims. Some have been developed for easing pain/tension, some aim to treat a specific condition, others help you purely relax.
​
Oncology massage is gentle massage specifically adapted to the needs of people who have a current or previous cancer diagnosis.
​
Massage not only has physical benefits but psychological ones too. So it's good for the Mind, Body and Spirit.
​
The benefits of oncology massage include:
​
-
Relaxation of the mind and body
-
Tension relief
-
Improvement in the flow of lymph fluid in the lymphatic system
-
Mood enhancement
-
Reduction in pain, headaches, nausea, fatigue
-
Reduction in anxiety, stress and depression
Individuals how have had massages during cancer treatments have reported a range of positive outcomes, including:
​
-
Improvement in sleep
-
Better quality of life
-
Improvement in mental clarity and alertness
-
Ease of movement
-
Increase in relaxation
​
Massage is a complementary therapy which means it can be used to complement your conventional medical treatment. But it is not a treatment for cancer and cannot be used in place of conventional treatment.
Can Oncology Massage spread cancer?
​
​Cancer patients sometimes worry that having a massage when they have cancer may make the cancer cells travel to other parts of the body, but there is no research to prove this to be true.
​
Gentle massage does not increase vascular or lymphatic circulation any more than activities of daily living such as exercise, shopping or taking a warm bath.
​
Contra-indications and cautions
Light relaxing massage can be safely given to people at all stages of cancer. However, there are some cautions to be noted:
​
-
Radiotherapy sites should be avoided for 6 weeks after treatment has finished to avoid discomfort, and no massage should be performed over the area until any redness has settled
-
Cancer patients should not have massage to areas where there skin is broken, bleeding or bruised.
-
People with cancer should avoid very deep or vigorous massage.
-
After surgery, no massage should be given until the area has fully healed.
GP written consent may be required for treatment to proceed for some ailments/conditions. This is required for insurance purposes.
​
What adaptations are needed?
​
Before treatment, we will go through a consultation process and discuss a variety of things including your medical treatments, side effects, surgery areas, what you want to get out of the treatment, etc. I will check in with you before any follow-up appointments too, as things can be different every time.
We will then determine what adaptations may be needed. This may include things like:
-
Adding extra cushions/bolsters for comfort
-
Altering the position you lie on to avoid discomfort (for example, we may consider a side lying massage instead of lying on your front if you have had recent surgery)
-
Altering the length of the session e.g. shortening the session where your energy levels are lower etc
-
Determining the level of massage pressure to ensure you get the most out of your treatment without putting undue pressure on your body.
​
What happens during treatment?
After an initial consultation, I will advise what clothing needs to be removed and how you should lie on the massage table (towels/blankets will be on the bed to cover you). I will then give you privacy to allow you to undress and get onto the massage table.
​
For clients with larger bust, surgery scarring, or even just for comfort I have a super comfy chest pillow I can use for you to lie on and relieve the pressure from your chest area.
​
If you have lost your hair and are currently wearing a topper or wig, you are welcome to remove this if you feel comfortable to prevent getting oil in it. I can incorporate scalp massage into the treatment if you would enjoy that. You are welcome to wear a scarf if you'd prefer. The main thing is for you to be able to relax and feel comfortable.
Relaxing music will be played through the treatment (unless you request otherwise).
I will gently work through a series of movements, adapted to your needs.
What is the cost?
£55 per treatment
Further Information
​