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Oncology Massage (massage for those living with cancer)

What is oncology massage?

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Massage, in general, is the warming, kneading, stroking, rolling and pressing of the muscles and skin.  

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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.

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Oncology massage is gentle massage specifically adapted to the needs of people who have a current or previous cancer diagnosis.

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Massage not only has physical benefits but psychological ones too. So it's good for the Mind, Body and Spirit.

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The benefits of oncology massage include:

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  • 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:

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  • Improvement in sleep

  • Better quality of life

  • Improvement in mental clarity and alertness

  • Ease of movement

  • Increase in relaxation

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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.

Hand Massage
Massage Table

Can Oncology Massage spread cancer?

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​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.

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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.

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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:

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  • 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.

 

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Massage
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What adaptations are needed?

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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

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