Helping women bring balance to their mind, body and soul
Oncology Massage
(massage for those living with cancer)
What is oncology massage?
Oncology massage is gentle massage specifically adapted to the needs of people who have a current or previous cancer diagnosis.
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.
Investment:
£55 per treatment
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.
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.
Further Information