What is Oncology Massage?
Oncology massage involves the modification of traditional massage techniques (like Swedish massage and others) to provide a safe session for cancer patients. Adjustments are based on the client’s current treatments and side effects. Every session is customized to meet an individual’s changing needs and massage goals.
Therapists trained in oncology massage understand the complexities of cancer, its treatments and side effects. Before beginning a session, therapists assess health information, talk with clients, and create a safe session plan. This plan includes any number of adjustments including but not limited to techniques, pressure, positioning, or length of session.
With doctor approval, oncology massage is safe to receive regardless of the severity of condition. When a cancer patient is in treatment, a comfort-oriented massage using gentle, soothing touch may be most beneficial to reduce fatigue, nausea, and stress. After treatment and in the years that follow, sessions using specific techniques to reduce pain, increase mobility or help with swelling may be preferred. A research study published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork found that 3-18 months following breast cancer surgery, women with persistent chest and shoulder pain or lack of mobility benefited from a combination of myofascial release and lymphatic massage techniques.
Whatever the timing or massage goal, oncology massage provides many benefits and is a wonderful addition to a cancer care plan.
Benefits of Oncology Massage
Oncology massage offers a range of benefits for cancer patients, including:
- Pain Relief – gentle massage can help alleviate pain caused by tumors, surgeries, and treatments, providing a sense of comfort and relief.
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress – the calming effects of massage can help reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, enhancing mental well-being.
- Improved Sleep – by promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort, oncology massage can improve sleep quality and help patients achieve restorative rest.
- Enhanced Immune Function – some studies suggest that massage can boost immune function, which is particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
- Reduced Nausea and Fatigue – massage therapy can help manage common side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea and fatigue, improving overall energy levels.
- Better Quality of Life – regular massage can enhance overall quality of life by providing emotional support, improving mood, and fostering a sense of well-being.
- Reduced Post-Surgical Swelling – massage therapy can help reduce swelling after surgery and support rehabilitation and recovery.
- Improved Body Awareness – receiving a nurturing and supportive massage can help enhance body awareness.
Society for Oncology Massage
Key Contributions of S4OM:
- Education and Training – S4OM provides specialized training programs for massage therapists, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to safely work with cancer patients. This includes understanding contraindications, appropriate techniques, and the psychological aspects of cancer care.
- Research and Advocacy – the organization supports research into the benefits of oncology massage and advocates for its integration into standard cancer care practices. S4OM works to raise awareness about the value of massage therapy in oncology settings among healthcare professionals and the public.
- Standards and Certification – S4OM establishes and maintains high standards for oncology massage practitioners, offering certification programs that signify a therapist’s expertise and commitment to safe practice.
The S4OM offers a Preferred Practitioner directory online where you can find a qualified oncology massage therapist in your area.
Oncology Massage at CLM
It is important to note that oncology massage should be performed by licensed professionals who have undergone proper training. At Carole Lilly Massage, our Oncology Massage sessions are provided by Oncology Massage Therapists who are Preferred Practitioners with the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM). Preferred Practitioners are oncology trained massage therapists who align with current best practices and with Society for Oncology Massage educational standards.
Carole is a Nationally Board-Certified Massage Therapist (BCMTB), a NC Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist (LMBT), and owner of Carole Lilly Massage since 2008. She is a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage therapist (CMLDT) and began taking MLD and Oncology Massage advanced coursework in 2009.
“I love that I get to wake up each day and share massage with you. It’s such a gift to slow down and take good care of ourselves.” – Carole
At CLM, we recommend an Oncology Massage session if you are currently in treatment or have a history of cancer and would like a relaxing, safe, and effective massage. A First Visit Oncology Massage session is reserved for new clients. It includes a 15-minute consultation with Carole and a one-hour Oncology Massage session.
What is a session like?
At CLM, an oncology massage typically lasts thirty or sixty minutes. Your therapist will create an individual session plan based on your health history, treatments, side effects, and massage goals. Adjustments may be made to pressure, positioning on the massage table, length of session, or working around certain areas of your body that would not benefit from touch (like a port).
Depending on the massage goal, clients may experience deep relaxation, less anxiety, pain relief, reduced swelling, or improved mobility after a session.
Oncology clients can benefit greatly from massage during treatment, while recovering, or years later. However, you should consult with your doctor before beginning a massage therapy program with CLM.
Conclusion
Oncology massage is a compassionate, safe and effective approach to supporting individuals through their cancer care journey. By addressing the unique needs of cancer patients, this specialized form of massage therapy can significantly enhance physical comfort, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. The Society for Oncology Massage plays a pivotal role in advancing this field through education, research, and advocacy, ensuring that cancer patients receive safe, beneficial care from trained professionals.
If you have any questions about Oncology Massage sessions at Carole Lilly Massage, please contact us.
