Does massage spread Cancer?

Massage Therapy for those living with cancer.

When I first graduated from massage school almost two decades ago we were taught that massage was contraindicated for anyone that has been diagnosed with the big "C".

 Fortunately, there are a number of people that questioned the theory that massage spread cancer.So they went about doing the intensive research.

 I was not one of them but, now I am appreciating the research they did. The work that these pioneers in the relatively new professional discipline of Oncology Massage is revealing that it is safe and beneficial for those that have been  diagnosed with cancer at some in their life.

Massage does not cure cancer but it can make it easier to tolerate the effects during and after of the treatments.

The practice of Oncology Massage has only been around since 2008 as a specialty.

After my own learning experience I believe that therapist working with a cancer patient should be trained and anyone affected by and living with cancer seeking a massage should question the therapist 

first if they have been trained to work with people with cancer.

 Working with folks affected by cancer is almost unavoidable today with the rate of cancer survivors.

 However, working with clients with a history of cancer is very complex with the need of many adjustments. 

That being said the next question that comes to mind is what exactly is Oncology massage and how does it differ from traditional massage?

By definition Oncology massage is adaptation of massage techniques to safely nurture the body of someone affected by cancer or its treatments.

Furthermore, massage can be safe and therapeutic during and after cancer treatment(s).

Oncology massage can make your cancer journey easier.

This therapy is increasingly used in many hospitals and care centers to improve the quality of life of people affected by cancer to help manage cancer treatment and related side effects.

So before going to a spa here are thoughts what a cancer patients and survivors need to know.

• The techniques that are used is deeply relaxing using gentle and slow strokes to promote relaxation.
• Adaptations are made for site, pressure and position.
• It is tailored to how someone is feeling on that day.
• Its aim is not to work out muscle kinks.
• Skilled touch is beneficial at nearly every stage of the cancer experience.

Many cancer treatments require long-term massage modifications

Massage adaptations are required for:

•      Low blood cell counts 
•      Blood clots
•      Bone metastases
•      Radiation or surgery
•      Lymphedema
•      Peripheral neuropathy
•      Medication
•      Medical devices
•      Late effects of treatment.

What are some of the benefits that can be anticipated would be another question to consider?

Massage and Cancer Clinical Research shows that massage can improve some cancer treatment side effects.

It can:

•  Reduce pain and fatigue,
•  Decrease anxiety, 
•  Improve sleep, 
•  Greater sense of well-being,
•  Feeling less nausea.
•  Enhance body image

 How is oncology massage different from traditional massage therapy?

Skilled touch is beneficial at nearly every stage of the cancer experience.

Many cancer treatments require long term massage adaptations.

Massage adaptations are required for:

• Low blood  cell count
• Blood clots
• Bone Mets
• Radiation or surgery
• Fatigue
• Removal of lymph nodes 
• Lymphedema
• Medications
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Medical devices
• Late effects treatments.

Why should I request an oncology trained therapist?

• If you're in or have a history of cancer, request an oncology trained therapist.
• An oncology trained therapist has completed comprehensive, specializes training that address the side effects of cancer or its various treatments.
• Most therapists don't receive training to help them understand the complexity of people who have had treatment for cancer.
• Even after people are out of treatment receiving bodywork from an oncology therapist is important due to the potential late effects of treatment.
• Are you a member of the Society for Oncology Massage

 A trained therapist should easily be able to answer the following questions.

• Have you received training in how to work safely with people diagnosed with cancer?
• What kind of modifications would you make based on my current status?
• What do you know about massage for people at risk of lymphedema?

 

What are other saying who have received massages?

• "Being so far out of treatment I didn't anticipate being able to feel that much better, but after the massage I did."
• "This is not about pampering, it's about keeping myself in one piece until I'm done with treatments." 
•  "I slept well and felt so relaxed."
• "I'm so grateful and have this beautiful calmness about me." 
  

Finally Gayle MacDonald, author of "Medicine Hands: Massage for People Living with Cancer says this: 

"Skilled touch is beneficial at nearly every stage of cancer experience, during, pro& post-operative period, outpatient clinic, during chemotherapy and radiation, recovery at home, remission, or cure and in the end stages of life"

 Massage is recommend by:

American Cancer Society

Society for Integrative Oncology Live Strong