Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Oncology Massage?
"The adaptation of massage to safely nurture body, mind and spirit of anyone who is dealing with cancer."
~ Society For Oncology Massage
Can Massage Cause Metastasis?
“ Although some sources have expressed concern that massage may cause a dislocation of cells from a site of cancer enabling a metastasis to be set up elsewhere in the body, there have been no controlled studies or other scientific evidence reported to support this theoretical possibility."
“In summary, it is our belief that GENTLE, conscious massage is not only safe, but has many demonstrated beneficial effects (e.g., enhanced well-being, decreased anxiety, nausea and fatigue.) There is no data to suggest that it causes any harm to persons with cancer.”
~Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Norris Cotton Cancer Center
How Does Oncology Massage Therapy Differ From Other Massage Therapy?
An Oncology Massage session is similar to other massage therapy sessions, as it is tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. However, additional adjustments such as the following may need to be made due to some cancer related conditions.
What Are The Benefits Of Massage Therapy For Oncology Clients?
"The adaptation of massage to safely nurture body, mind and spirit of anyone who is dealing with cancer."
~ Society For Oncology Massage
Can Massage Cause Metastasis?
“ Although some sources have expressed concern that massage may cause a dislocation of cells from a site of cancer enabling a metastasis to be set up elsewhere in the body, there have been no controlled studies or other scientific evidence reported to support this theoretical possibility."
“In summary, it is our belief that GENTLE, conscious massage is not only safe, but has many demonstrated beneficial effects (e.g., enhanced well-being, decreased anxiety, nausea and fatigue.) There is no data to suggest that it causes any harm to persons with cancer.”
~Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Norris Cotton Cancer Center
How Does Oncology Massage Therapy Differ From Other Massage Therapy?
An Oncology Massage session is similar to other massage therapy sessions, as it is tailored specifically to the individual client's needs. However, additional adjustments such as the following may need to be made due to some cancer related conditions.
- A shorter duration is usually indicated.
- Light pressure is indicated when the client is fatigued, bruises easily, has low blood counts, deep vein thrombosis, neuropathy, skin sensitivity, cachexia or is taking pain medications. Also, a deeper pressure can bring histamine and additional fluids to the area and is contraindicated due to the risk of lymphedema developing.
- Proper adjustments and special techniques will be used on the affected quadrant, when the lymph system has been compromised to decrease the risk for lymphedema. Those who have had lymph nodes tested, biopsied, removed or radiated in the neck, armpit or groin, are at risk for developing lymphedema. Because the lymph system has been compromised it no longer has the same capacity for transporting fluids through that area. This can cause back-up of fluid leading to swelling which may eventually become extreme and irreversible. This is lymphedema, which is a life-long risk, no matter how much time passes after the lymph node procedure.
- Positioning modified to accommodate any surgical or radiation sites or medical devices, along with swelling, breathing complications or coughing, to ensure clients comfort.
- Site restrictions such as radiation sites, skin conditions, incisions, medical devices, tumors or bone metastasis.
What Are The Benefits Of Massage Therapy For Oncology Clients?
- Massage has been proven to decrease pain, anxiety, nausea, fatigue and improve sleep, while enhancing well-being, in addition to also lowering cortisol, which is a hormone that is released as a response to stress and suppresses the immune system by "muting" the white blood cells. We have known for many years that some forms of cancer are related to increased levels of psychological stress. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin Medical School have recently shown that breast cancer patients have a flattened cortisol rhythm (resulting in an elevated twenty-four-hour exposure to cortisol) that predicts a shorter survival time.