Oncology Massage: Experience from a Cancer Survivor and Certified Therapist

By Kirsten Maron, Oncology Massage Therapist and Cancer Survivor

 

The words “You have breast cancer” turned my life upside down. The diagnosis brought a whirlwind of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Treatment was grueling: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation took a toll on my body and spirit. But through it all, it changed my life and ultimately led me down the path to where I am today. I am a cancer survivor who changed careers, and I am now an Oncology Massage Therapist. Here is some information I hope that can help you or a loved one going through the journey from my point of view—a cancer survivor and now an Oncology Massage Therapist.

Discovering Oncology Massage

During treatment, a nurse recommended oncology massage. Initially, I was skeptical. How could massage possibly help with cancer? I just want to survive. However, after one session, I felt profound relief. The gentle, careful touch eased my pain and anxiety, providing rare moments of peace.

What Is Oncology Massage?

Oncology massage is a specialised, gentle, and safe form of massage therapy designed to support those of us with a history of cancer, those currently undergoing treatment, living with cancer, and survivors of cancer. This type of massage addresses our unique physical and emotional needs by taking into consideration any specific medical conditions, treatments being undertaken, and our overall health status.

A cancer diagnosis can provoke intense feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Throughout your journey, oncology massage can help support you and soothe emotional challenges by allowing you to experience moments of calmness and control, as well as relief from anxiety and distress.

Oncology massage offers a multitude of benefits throughout your cancer journey. As well as enhancing your overall quality of life and helping you relax, oncology massage can be part of your symptom management plan to help you feel more in control of your experiences.

 

How Can Oncology Massage Benefit You?

Unlike remedial, deep tissue, or relaxation massage, oncology massage feels very slow, soft, and soothing, involving mainly gentle stroking (effleurage) and steady, light touch. The treatment aims to elicit a relaxation response and stimulate the release of feel-good chemicals such as serotonin and endorphins. Other benefits include managing lingering discomfort from treatment, improving sleep, relieving constipation, and alleviating chemotherapy-induced numbness or hypersensitivity in your hands and feet.

The primary goal of oncology massage is to enhance the quality of life for anyone affected by cancer, irrespective of where you are in your treatment journey. Many people report feeling more relaxed, empowered, and in control after receiving this specialised therapy at a time when everything feels upside down.

It’s important to seek out a therapist with specialised training in oncology massage, someone you can connect with. Your ideal therapist will understand what you’re going through and possess the skills to address your unique needs. They will listen to your concerns and preferences and work with you to develop an optimal treatment plan that works for you both now and into the future.

 

When Can You Have A Massage?

In the early days of a cancer diagnosis, you might find yourself in shock, disbelief, and survival mode. This is a turbulent time when you’re asked to make decisions on treatments you may know very little about. Focusing on survival, you might not think about much else.

Once you begin treatment, you may experience a loss of control and uncertainty, alongside the frustration these emotions can bring. Cancer treatments often come with side effects that can be unpleasant or upsetting.

Family and friends can provide emotional and practical support, and your medical team will support you throughout your cancer journey. At some point, you might feel the need to reconnect with yourself, to acknowledge how you’re doing and feeling. Receiving a gentle, compassionate massage, after so much medically-based contact, can help you reorient with your body. Despite all you’ve been through, you are still you.

 

Supporting a Loved One Diagnosed with Cancer

Learning that someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer can be terrifying. Sometimes, our instincts make us step back to protect ourselves emotionally. Although this is understandable, your loved one needs your care and support in whatever form best suits them. Some people want to talk and connect, while others may wish to be left alone.

You can show your support through gifts, cards, or text messages. You might organise a cleaner or meal deliveries. Or perhaps give your loved one a gift voucher for an oncology massage, to be used when they feel they would benefit from a gentle, professional touch.

 

 How to Book

If you or someone you know is considering oncology massage, call and talk to our certified therapist who can guide you through the process. Your journey through cancer is personal, and finding the right support—physically, emotionally, and mentally—can make all the difference. Book online

 

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