What type of massage is best for cancer patients?

Gentle massage is tolerated by most people with cancer, and is sufficient to release “endorphins,” the “feel good” chemicals released by the brain that can reduce pain. For those who have muscle tightness and stiffness, stronger methods of massage, such as Swedish massage, may be needed.

Is it possible to give a massage to a cancer patient?

A massage therapist who is trained to work with cancer patients will ask about your diagnosis, treatments, diagnostic tests, blood values, symptoms, activity level and any restrictions you may have. Oncology massage is safe and effective at helping people feel better during challenging times.

Should cancer patients avoid massage?

People with cancer should avoid very deep massage. Gentler types may be safer. Some people worry that having a massage when you have cancer may make the cancer cells travel to other parts of the body. But no research has proved this to be true.

How does massage therapy help cancer patients?

Massage Therapy Benefits for Cancer Patients: Relieving nausea. Reducing depression and anxiety. Improving sleep and lessening fatigue. Preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

What is a oncology massage?

An oncology massage is a client-specific, customized massage session designed to meet the unique and changing needs of someone in treatment for cancer or with a history of cancer treatment. A safe massage plan generally revolves around the side effects (both short- and long-term) of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.

Can massage make cancer worse?

It is well documented that massage does not contribute to the spread of cancer. Some people worry that massage can spread cancer cells via the lymphatic system, the body’s immune system. Our lymphatic system is a network of nodes and vessels through which lymph or lymphatic fluid flows.

Can deep tissue massage cause cancer?

Some people worry that massage could cause cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. Research has not found any evidence of this happening, but massage therapists will avoid any areas affected by cancer, such as tumour sites or lymph nodes. Talk to your cancer doctor or specialist nurse if you are worried.

What happens if you massage a tumor?

The style of massage used for people during or after cancer treatment will depend on the treatment they’re having. Over the years, there has been a general concern that massage can increase the risk of cancer cells spreading to other parts of the body. However, there is no evidence that this happens.

How is oncology massage different?

“Oncology massage is very specialized,” says Thurman. “What we are doing is completely different from traditional forms of massage. Oncology massage uses light touch and slow, steady movements, working with the central nervous system to help the body relax.”

How is oncology massage different from regular massage?

Oncology massage vs. “What we are doing is completely different from traditional forms of massage. Oncology massage uses light touch and slow, steady movements, working with the central nervous system to help the body relax.” She recommends finding a massage therapist specifically trained in oncology massage.

How long after cancer can you have a massage?

Some other general guidelines suggested by Salvo include: Postpone massage after chemotherapy for at least one day, as this treatment often leaves people feeling especially tired.

Can you have a massage with lymphoma?

There is no risk or strong association between massages and the spread of cancer, so lymphoma patients can enjoy this therapy worry-free.

Where can I get massage therapy for cancer?

Adapt massage therapy to common side effects and cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. For dates, locations, and tuition, see our training schedule.

Are there massage therapists that treat lung cancer?

Lynne Eldrige, MD, is a lung cancer physician, patient advocate, and award-winning author of “Avoiding Cancer One Day at a Time.” Doru Paul, MD, is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology, and hematology. Many cancer centers are now offering massage therapy as a complementary treatment for cancer.

What to expect from an oncology massage therapist?

Massage therapists leave with essential oncology massage tools: sample protocols, a client intake form, follow-up intake questions, a visual decision tree, clearly described pressure guidelines, supervised hands-on practice experiences, and an extensive training manual. For dates, locations, and tuition, see our training schedule.

How long is a massage for breast cancer patients?

The 75 breast cancer patients were split into three groups: massage, inhalation, and control. The massage group received 20-minute aromatherapy foot massages before their second, third and fourth chemotherapy cycles, while the inhalation group received three-minute inhalation aromatherapy on the same schedule.