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, from those in active treatment to those in recovery or survivor-ship, as well as those at the end of life Should always receive massage from an Oncology Trained massage therapist
Essential aspects of an oncology massage therapist's skill set are an informed understanding of the disease itself and the many ways it can affect the human body; the side effects of cancer treatments, such as medications, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation; and 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
Lymph-edema
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, fill out and bring in the required forms. 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 Lymph-edema, low blood cell count, and reduced lung capacity.
Please continue to consult with your primary health care provider.
