“This is an extremely light touch massage therapy specifically designed to suit your needs”
What is Cancer Care Massage?
Oncology Massage is a specially designed combination of various therapies specifically designed for people living with cancer. Cancer patients may experience feelings of isolation, fear, anxiety and worry which can be alleviated and/or assisted through a medium of touch. Massage can help ease the stress experienced by cancer patients.
How Can It Help?
Reduced stress levels have been shown to be beneficial for the immune system so a properly performed oncology massage can be extremely beneficial for the patient to strengthen his/her body. Scientific studies show that cancer patients receiving massage have lower anxiety scores. Patients report the release of muscle tension can lead to pain relief. Feelings of deep relaxation and wholeness are most commonly reported.
Those who can receive Oncology Massage are
- Patients in receipt of Chemotherapy & Radiation Treatments.
- Pre & Post-Surgical Cancer (as advised by doc)
- Cancer Patients in remission.
- Patients with Lymph nodes removed.
- Full Medical history is taken
- A GP or Oncology team referral may be required from client prior to commencement of massage treatment
Is massage safe for people with cancer?
Light touch relaxing massage can safely be given to people at all stages of cancer. Some people worry that massage can spread cancer cells throughout the body via the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, organs and nodes through which lymphatic fluid (lymph) flows. It is part of the body’s immune system. Lymphatic circulation occurs naturally as we move.
Cancer may spread (metastasise) into the lymphatic system via the lymph nodes, or it may start in the lymphatic system itself. However, the circulation of lymph – from massage or other movement – does not cause cancer to spread. Researchers have shown that cancer develops and spreads because of changes to a cell’s DNA (genetic mutations) and other processes in the body.
What are the benefits of massage?
Scientific studies have looked at the effects of various body-based practices on people having cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery. These studies have shown that massage may be beneficial in the following areas;
- Pain control
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Anxiety and depression.
Individuals who have had massages during cancer treatments have reported a range of positive outcomes such as improvements in:
- Sleep
- Health of the scar tissue
- Quality of life
- Mental clarity and alertness
- Range of movement.
- More relaxed state of mind