Oncology Massage Therapy & Lymphatic Drainage Massage

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

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. 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.

A Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialised form of gentle massage that promotes the flow of lymph fluid through the body.  

The lymphatic system flows all throughout the body, and transports mainly white blood cells as part of the body's immune system. It helps regulate inflammation and the immune response, and removes waste and toxins from the body. Certain health conditions can interrupt the normal flow of lymph, causing a buildup in certain areas - also known as lymphedema. Examples include swollen ankles after a long-haul flight, or a swollen arm after breast cancer treatment.

A Lymphatic Drainage Massage, also known simply as Lymphatic Drainage, can assist in:

• Supporting and maintaining a healthy immune system
• Preparing the tissue for surgical intervention
• Help assist drainage pain and swelling post-surgery
• Supporting the nervous system

A Lymphatic Drainage Massage can be beneficial in the correction of numerous conditions, as well as in preventive health maintenance. It has been shown to be particularly beneficial for those recovering from respiratory infections, chronic fatigue, and also for the physically inactive; or recuperation from long illness or surgery; and ongoing rehabilitation such as cancer treatment plans. Massage during treatment may lift your mood and lower your stress response.

The treatment is administered by a specially qualified Lymphatic Drainage Massage Specialist who uses touch techniques which are gentle, specific and non-invasive.

What to expect during an Oncology or Lymphatic Massage?

The initial appointment will be approximately 90 minutes and your practitioner will work with you to discuss a treatment plan and program that's best for you. It will be completely tailored to your preferences and which areas of your body you would like to focus on, whether it's the whole body, or even just your hands, feet or scalp.

A history is taken at the beginning of each appointment so that each treatment can be correctly tailored to your particular needs.

Follow up treatments can be 30, 45 of 60 minutes. Oncology and Lymphatic Massage is light and gentle, and a person can expect to feel comfortable and relaxed.

How often should I have Oncology or Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

This depends on the person's need to have physical therapy and a treatment plan can be tailored by the practitioner. This may be weekly or monthly, depending on whether you are receiving current treatment, are coming for maintenance, or until your issues are suitable reduced.

What about rebates?

Please note that Massage Consultations with our Remedial & Oncology Massage Therapist, Teresa Corso are claimable with most private health insurance funds, except Medibank and HCF.  Please refer to your fund for clarification.

MIOG also offers Remedial Massage and Myotherapy for non-oncology patients. Contact us to book in for your remedial therapy today. 

Contact us to book an appointment  with our friendly Remedial & Oncology Massage Therapist, Teresa Corso on 03 9571 7498 or complete our Contact Us form.