Cancer and massage
Is massage for Cancer patients?
Yes!
Massage therapy isn't just about relaxation, its a valuable tool for cancer patients to help ease pain, reduce stress, and to help with wellbeing. It is a safe, gentle, comforting touch and is a positive addition to your treatment journey.
The Benefits of massage for Cancer recovery:
Pain Relief: Eases muscle tension, headaches and joint pain.
Anxiety reduction: Promotes relaxation, reduces stress and emotional strain.
Improved sleep
• Boosts Circulation: increases blood flow, supporting immune function.
Emotional support: Enhances the sense of well-being and provides emotional comfort.
How does massage help during cancer treatment?
Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy treatments can leave your body feeling weak and sore.
Massage helps to counteract these side effects by boosting circulation, reducing inflammation, sooth your muscles and connect you to your body again.
Managing Lymphedema with massage:
Lymphatic drainage massage is a Specialised technique that helps to manage lymphedema (swelling) that can occur after cancer treatments, promoting fluid movement and reducing discomfort.
Although it is important that if you are under the care of a lymphedema nurse that you consult with your lymphedema nurse before receiving the treatment to ensure it is safe for you as an individual.
The mind body connection:
Massage therapy is a form of holistic care that not only addresses physical symptoms but also promotes emotional healing. It can be a safe space for patients to relax and reconnect with their bodies.
What to expect from a cancer specific massage:
A massage for someone battling cancer is tailored specifically to their individual needs. It usually consists of a gentle comforting touch, providing a safe, judgement free space to open up, release tension and emotion, pressure and duration can be changed quite frequently. Most importantly it avoids areas of cancer sites and treatment sites and requires the close working of a wider healthcare team.
Is it safe?
Yes, with the correct training and understanding of different types of cancers, cancer treatments and the journey the patient will be going through it is safe. It is important to pick a massage therapist who is trained in oncology massage, not only will they have an understanding of the different types of cancers and cancer treatments but they will be trained to empathise with the different emotional journey clients may be on.
Emotional benefits:
Cancer treatment can take a huge emotional toll on the mind. Massage therapy can provide comfort, reduce feelings of isolation, and support emotional resilience. It's more than just the physical care, fis an opportunity for emotional release. Usually, Client's with cancer are hiding true emotions to be strong for their loved ones and this is their time to have time to themselves to feel exactly how they need to feel in that time and space.