Oncology Massage is a specialised form of massage therapy tailored specifically for the needs of individuals undergoing cancer treatment as well as those in recovery or remission. This gentle approach adapts traditional massage techniques to be safe for cancer patients and survivors, addressing the unique physical and emotional challenges associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Historically, massage was considered contraindicated for cancer patients due to misconceptions about its safety. However, recent research and clinical experience have shown that when performed by trained oncology massage therapists, it is not only safe but offers significant benefits. Oncology massage takes into account the full spectrum of cancer-related issues: the physical effects of the disease, the side effects of various treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, and the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis.

Therapists, Like Kelly Ryan, skilled in oncology massage have specialised training that includes an understanding of cancer’s effects on the body, modifications necessary to safely work with complications such as lymphedema, and the ability to tailor sessions to the individual’s current treatment status, side effects, and long-term considerations. They use light, gentle strokes and avoid deep tissue techniques and pressure to sensitive areas, ensuring that the massage provides benefits without any harm.

The primary aim of oncology massage is to enhance the patient’s quality of life by alleviating symptoms, reducing stress, and providing much-needed relaxation and comfort. It’s considered an integrative approach that complements medical treatment by addressing the symptoms at the physical level and providing psychological benefits through touch and empathetic interaction, making a profound difference in the patient’s journey through cancer care.

This method modifies traditional massage techniques to accommodate the unique requirements and potential vulnerabilities of oncology patients, including lower bone density, skin sensitivity, and immune system concerns.

The technique primarily involves gentle strokes, light touch, and careful attention to the areas affected by cancer treatments. Unlike typical massage therapy, deep tissue work is avoided to prevent any undue pressure on sensitive areas that might be impacted by surgeries or radiation therapy. The focus is on enhancing lymphatic flow without over-stimulation, which is particularly important for patients at risk for or dealing with lymphedema—a common complication following lymph node removal or damage.

A critical aspect of how oncology massage works is its approach to customization. Each session is tailored to the individual’s current health, medical history, and treatment side effects. This personalized approach ensures that the massage provides benefits without any risk of harm. For example, positioning on the massage table may be adjusted based on surgical sites, ports, or catheters, and areas with radiation burns or bone metastases are treated with particular care or avoided altogether.

Oncology massage therapists are trained to understand the pathophysiology of cancer and its treatments, allowing them to apply their skills effectively within a safe framework. Their training includes knowledge of cancer therapies, side effects, and the emotional toll of cancer, which equips them to provide therapeutic touch that offers both physical relief and emotional support.

By mitigating symptoms such as pain, anxiety, nausea, and fatigue, oncology massage works to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, making it a valuable complement to conventional medical treatments.

Oncology Massage offers a wide range of benefits specifically designed to support individuals undergoing cancer treatments. Its primary advantage lies in its ability to significantly enhance the patient’s quality of life during such a challenging period. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Pain Reduction: Gentle massage techniques help to alleviate pain without the need for additional medication, which can be particularly beneficial given the high levels of pharmaceuticals often already in a patient’s system.

2. Stress and Anxiety Relief: Oncology massage can induce a deep state of relaxation, helping to reduce anxiety and depression. The calming effect of touch and attentive care from a trained therapist helps mitigate the psychological impacts of cancer and its treatment.

3. Improved Sleep: Many cancer patients struggle with sleep due to discomfort or anxiety. The soothing nature of oncology massage promotes better sleep quality by easing muscle tension and creating a state of relaxation that makes it easier to fall and stay asleep.

4. Enhanced Immune Function: While direct stimulation of the immune system through massage in oncology patients is debated, the reduction of stress hormones can indirectly support immune function by creating a more conducive environment for the body to heal and protect itself.

5. Nausea Relief: Some studies and patient reports suggest that oncology massage helps reduce symptoms of nausea, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

6. Increased Energy Levels: By reducing pain, improving sleep, and decreasing emotional fatigue, patients often experience an improvement in overall energy levels.

7. Enhanced Circulation: The gentle manipulations in oncology massage help improve blood flow, which is vital for healing and recovery.

These benefits combined make oncology massage a compassionate, supportive therapy that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

After receiving an Oncology Massage, many patients report feeling a significant improvement in both their physical and emotional well-being.

The immediate effect often includes a profound sense of relaxation and reduction in stress, which for many leads to an improved outlook on their health journey.

Physically, patients might notice a decrease in pain levels, reduced stiffness, and a greater range of motion if mobility has been affected by treatments or the cancer itself.

Emotionally, the nurturing experience of receiving focused, gentle care can help lift spirits and provide comfort during a time when patients often feel vulnerable and overwhelmed. This emotional relief is vital, as it can positively impact the overall healing process.

Additionally, the relaxation facilitated by the massage often leads to better sleep patterns that night, further aiding in recovery and quality of life.

Patients also frequently report feeling more energised after the session. This boost can be attributed to the alleviation of pain and the reduction of mental fatigue that often accompanies long-term medical treatments. The gentle stimulation of lymph flow during the massage can also help decrease the feeling of heaviness and lethargy caused by lymphedema, a common condition in cancer survivors.

Overall, the feelings of relief and rejuvenation following an Oncology Massage can be profound, making it a highly beneficial complement to traditional cancer treatments.

Price: £60
Time: 1hr (Full Body)

Add-ons:

• Why not add a Japanese Head Spa for an all-round relaxation experience? Add-on during your booking.
  
  NOTE: Before your treatment you’ll fill out a consultation form online alongside any additional treatment forms or acknowledgement of aftercare instructions.