ONCOLOGY MASSAGE
Oncology massage is the modification of existing massage therapy techniques in order to safely work with complications of cancer and cancer treatment.
Anyone who has ever received cancer treatment should receive massage from an Oncology Trained Massage Therapist. It is beneficial whether you are in active treatment, recent recovery, or long term survivorship. Clients at the end of life also enjoy relief from oncology massage.
An Oncology Massage Therapist's skill set has several essential aspects. It is important to have an informed understanding of the disease itself and the many ways it can affect the human body. Oncology Massage Therapists must also be knowledgeable about the side effects of cancer treatments, such as medications, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Most important is the ability to modify massage techniques in order to adapt for these side effects, as well as for the disease.
We take into consideration:
Low blood cell counts
Removal of lymph nodes
Lymphedema
Bone metastases
Peripheral neuropathy
Radiation or surgery
Medications
Fatigue
Medical devices
Bone pain
Late effects of treatment
Blood clots
Reported massage benefits can include:
Reduced pain and fatigue
Decreased anxiety and nausea
Increased serotonin and dopamine levels in body (feel-good chemicals)
Improved sleep
Eased isolation
Enhanced body image
Greater sense of well-being
Immune system support
Peripheral neuropathy
Helps with low blood cell count side effects
Relieves bone pain
Helps with medication side effects
We recommend you start with shorter 60 min sessions to evaluate how your body is doing before moving on to longer sessions.
If you are a cancer survivor please go to the Forms page. Print the "Oncology Massage Intake" form. Please fill it out and bring it for your first appointment. That way, your session can start on time, as some of this medical history can take a while to fill out.
We may also require a "Physicians Release" form signed and handed in. You will get one of these at your first visit.
If you are a long-term survivor you may still be at risk for certain conditions including, but not limited to, Lymphedema, low blood cell count, and reduced lung capacity.
Please continue to consult with your primary health care provider. Do not use massage therapy to replace your regular medical care.
