Cancer and Oncology Massage Therapy

11 March 2021

What is Oncology Massage Therapy?

Oncology Massage Therapy is a safe specialised form of massage therapy that is completely tailored to meet the unique and changing needs of someone currently undergoing cancer treatment or with a history of cancer.

Oncology Massage Therapy and Cancer Care

It is important to understand that an Oncology Massage Therapy is completely different from traditional forms of massage. Unlike traditional forms of massage, Oncology Massage gently supports blood flow, relaxation of physical tension and emotional release.. Oncology Massage therapists are specifically trained in cancer care, and take into account elevated levels of stress and pain. A safe massage plan generally revolves around the side effects (both short- and long-term) of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, as well as the preferences and needs of the person. It is completely individualised in terms of session length, pressure, positioning and takes into account areas of specific concern like mediports, bone metastases, swelling or skin reactions to treatment. Specialist Oncology Massage Therapists are able to adapt and deal safely with the many and varied situations that may arise during the illness and its treatment including Lymphoedema, lowered blood counts, fatigue, nausea, anxiety, wound sites and surgical devices such as catheters, ports and stoma bags.

The Benefits of Oncology Massage Therapy

Research shows that Oncology Massage Therapy can reduce the side effects from conventional treatment of cancer and improve the quality of life for someone undergoing cancer treatment or with a history of cancer.

Patients reported that even after a single Oncology Massage session they experienced the following:

Reduced pain
Reduced fatigue
Reduced nausea
Reduced swelling
Reduced depressive symptoms (such as anxiety)
Showed improvement in shortness of breath & dry mouth
Improvement in overall wellbeing and sleep

So if you want to treat a loved one with cancer to a relaxing experience but in a safe and specialist environment, why not get in touch with our friendly team at MIOG on (03) 9571 7498 or complete our Contact Us form on our website and we will be happy to organise a session with our experienced Remedial & Oncology Massage specialist, Teresa Corso.

About the Author: MIOG support team

At MIOG, all staff are qualified practitioners, including our valued receptionists and administration support team. With Bachelors of Health Science in either Naturopathy or Nutritional Medicine, the team are educated and experienced, with valuable insight into nutritional, herbal, and lifestyle interventions for oncology care.