Oncology Massage

“Skilled touch is beneficial at nearly every stage of the cancer experience, during hospitalization, the pre- or post-operative period, in the outpatient clinic, during chemotherapy and radiation, recovery at home, remission, or cure and in the end stages of life.”

—Gayle MacDonald, MS, LMT
Author of Medicine Hands: Massage for People Living with Cancer

Massage is recommended by the American Cancer Society, Society for Integrative Oncology and LiveStrong. It is offered at many cancer centers including MD Anderson Cancer Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and other US and international cancer centers.

If provided by a trained therapist, massage can be of great service for the individual involved in the cancer experience. Massage can help cancer patients reconnect with their bodies and regain a sense of empowerment and an element of control over their circumstances. Because I am passionate about working with clients dealing with cancer, I am certified to provide oncology massage services to safely address the complexities that are presented with cancer and cancer treatments. My personal desire is to help expand awareness of this supportive complimentary therapy for cancer patients.

General Benefits
● Deeper relaxation
● Reduced stress
● Improved sleep
● Reduced fluid accumulation
● Eased constipation
● Increased alertness and mental clarity
● Reduced anxiety
● Less nausea
● Reduced pain

Before/After Surgery
● Reduced anxiety in advance of surgery
● Easier recovery from anesthesia
● Reduced post-surgical pain
● Improved scars
● Improved adhesions
● Reduced swelling
● Improved range of motion
● Easier acceptance of implants

Before/After Radiation or Chemotherapy
● Reduced anxiety in advance of and during treatment
● Reduced post-treatment fatigue
● Improved appetite
● Improved peripheral neuropathy

Emotional Benefits
● Decreased anxiety
● Decreased depression
● Increased feelings of well-being
● Being pleasantly distracted
● Improved body self-image
● Restored hope
● Satisfaction at driving the healing process

Source: www.s4om.org