Oncology massage is a specialized massage therapy treatment for people who have been diagnosed with cancer, are currently undergoing treatment for cancer, or are recovering from cancer and the side effects of its treatment. Traditional bodywork techniques are modified so clients can safely receive massage therapy. Oncology massage reduces muscle soreness, nerve pain, fatigue, depression, nausea, swelling, and other side effects caused by chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
Because cancer patients often experience skin sensitivity, bruising, and reduced bone density as a result of both cancer and its treatment, oncology massage is gentle and light touch. Additionally, if any lymph nodes have been biopsied, removed, or treated with radiation, the risk of lymphedema increases. Deep tissue massage can trigger lymphedema, so it’s best to proceed gently.
Oncology massage is not a specific set of techniques, but rather a knowledge base that allows the practitioner to adjust traditional massage practices in order to safely provide massage therapy. Modifications include:
- Ensuring appropriate levels of pressure to avoid triggering lymphedema.
- Site Restrictions – massage is not performed on active tumor sites, recent incisions, and any wounds or sores.
- Positioning/Bolstering – patients can be positioned and bolstered for comfort and to accommodate medical devices.
Contraindications – An oncology massage therapist is trained to know when massage therapy is not advisable. For this reason, it is important to keep your massage therapist updated on your current medical conditions. Contraindications include:
- Blood Clots – patients with deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism should avoid massage therapy.
- Infection/Fever – this is true for any massage client, but especially for those undergoing cancer treatment.
- Low White Blood Cell or Platelet Counts – massage therapy is not recommended for patients with severely low white blood cell counts or platelet counts unless authorized by an oncologist.
- Lymphedema – while oncology massage is gentle in part to help avoid lymphedema, if it is already present, patients should seek treatment by a therapist trained specifically in manual lymphatic drainage techniques.
Benefits of Oncology Massage – oncology massage therapy can improve the quality of life for cancer patients. Benefits include:
- Relieves Muscle and Nerve Pain
- Eases Depression and Fatigue
- Alleviates Swelling and Nausea
- Provides Positive Touch