Is massage safe for individuals with active cancer?
The simple answer is: Yes!
Many massage therapists were taught in school that cancer is a contraindication for someone to receive massage. But that is NOT true! Unless the individual has an infectious disease, a fever or has recently been treated with internal radiation, there is always something that an Oncology trained massage therapist can do to help them feel better.
The 5 most common symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments:
Pain
Anxiety
Nausea
Fatigue
and Depression
How can an oncology massage help?
Oncology massage has been known to:
1. Alleviate and help with the management of pain.
Oncology massage can provide significant relief from pain associated with cancer and its treatments. Skilled massage therapists trained in oncology massage techniques can use gentle and soothing strokes to address areas of discomfort. Massage helps to release tension, relax muscles, and increase circulation, which can contribute to pain reduction.
2. Reduce anxiety.
Living with cancer often leads to heightened levels of anxiety. Oncology massage offers a safe and calming environment where individuals can relax both physically and mentally. Through the power of touch, massage triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin, which are natural mood enhancers. This helps to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and create a sense of well-being.
3. Reduce stress and pain; therefore, in many cases, reduce nausea.
Stress and pain can exacerbate nausea and other treatment-related side effects. By reducing stress and pain, oncology massage can indirectly alleviate nausea. Additionally, specific massage techniques, such as gentle abdominal massage, can directly address digestive issues and relieve nausea and discomfort.
4. Reduce fatigue.
Cancer and its treatments can cause extreme fatigue and a lack of energy. Oncology massage can help combat fatigue by stimulating blood circulation, enhancing lymphatic flow, and promoting the elimination of toxins. This increased circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the cells, which can result in improved energy levels and reduced feelings of exhaustion.
5. Improve quality of sleep.
Sleep disturbances are common among individuals with cancer. Oncology massage promotes relaxation and a sense of calm, helping to regulate sleep patterns. The release of endorphins and serotonin during massage also supports a restful sleep by reducing pain, anxiety, and physical tension that may interfere with sleep quality.
6. Improve quality of life.
Overall, oncology massage contributes to an improved quality of life for people with active cancer. By addressing physical discomfort, reducing emotional distress, and promoting relaxation, massage therapy can positively impact a person's well-being. It provides a space for self-care, enhances the mind-body connection, and offers a sense of comfort and support during a challenging time.
Who is qualified to massage someone with cancer?
Make sure that your massage therapist has been thoroughly trained in ONCOLOGY Massage. Not every massage therapist is trained but will think that they can work with this unique population.
If you have cancer, please do not work with anyone who is not an Oncology Massage Therapist, as modifications will need to be made to your session and if they aren’t trained, they can hurt you!
Are you or a loved one living with cancer and seeking relief from pain, anxiety, and fatigue?
As a trained oncology massage therapist, I am here to help. At Colysa Therapies, I specialize in providing gentle and effective massage techniques tailored to the unique needs of individuals with active cancer.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the healing power of oncology massage, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can work towards alleviating pain, reducing anxiety, and improving overall well-being. Contact me today to schedule a session and take a step towards enhancing your quality of life. You deserve support and comfort on your cancer journey, and I'm here to provide it. Let's embark on this healing path together.
