What is oncology massage?

Oncology massage refers to a specific kind of massage technique that is suitable for those living with cancer or receiving cancer treatment. It is adapted to suit the individual, and the practitioner will tailor the massage depending on the specific, changing needs of each client. This may be because a client is undergoing chemotherapy, is recovering from surgery, has reduced mobility or can only sit or lie comfortably in certain positions or for brief periods of time.

It can complement treatment by positively effecting sleep, helping you to relax and reducing muscle tension. It is particularly helpful for those undergoing chemotherapy as it can help with some of the side effects of treatment.

Like anyone, people going through cancer treatment seek massage or manual therapy for a huge range of symptoms, which could be related to their diagnosis or not. Some of the most common symptoms I might treat include shoulder pain or reduced mobility following a mastectomy or other surgery, peripheral neuropathy and joint pain associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and general fatigue and upper body tension. I also treat musculoskeletal pain, injuries or issues that may predate or be unrelated to your diagnosis.

The important things to know are that the pressure and techniques will always be gentle enough to be safe during cancer treatment - when your skin and soft tissues can be more prone to bruising, and I can work around any medical devices or in any position that you are comfortable in post-surgery.

Because the technique is so gentle, you don’t need to get consent from your oncologist in the way you would with some other forms of manual therapy. Bar a few exceptions (see the bottom of this page), it is suitable for anyone living with cancer, and is recommended as a complement to treatment by several organisation including Macmillan, Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer Now and several NHS Hospital Trusts.

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How might it benefit me?

​Many people want a massage because it can help relieve muscle tension and improve their mobility as a result. Although the pressure applied in an oncology massage is much lighter than a deep tissue massage, clients can still experience reduction in pain and muscular tension through it, as the gentle pressure is sustained and the massage stroke repeated over the length of the treatment. Massage can stimulate aspects of the autonomic nervous system and help you to feel more relaxed, by increasing serotonin and dopamine, both of which are hormones that positively effect sleep and reduce anxiety, as well as reducing the stress hormone cortisol.

Alongside regular specialist physiotherapy, massage can help reduce some of the discomfort associated with Axillary Web Syndrome (cording). Some people experience peripheral neuropathy during cancer treatment. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is thought to occur because some chemotherapy drugs damage nerves and capillaries, often in the extremities. Recent research suggests that some people with CIPN can benefit from massage, and some patients experience a significant reduction in CIPN when receiving regular oncology massage alongside chemotherapy.

Because chemotherapy and radiation therapies target rapidly dividing cancer cells, many people experience side effects in other areas where cells are rapidly dividing - typically hair, nails, skin and the lining of the gastro intestinal tract. Several recent studies suggest that oncology massage can reduce nausea and vomiting among women undergoing chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer you can find them here and here. Oncology massage, combined with specialist skincare, can alleviate side effects including dry, itchy and sensitive skin, and brittle, damaged nails. I use the range from Beauty Despite Cancer in my treatments.

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What can I expect from treatment?

I can offer you a full body massage, or just focus on one or several areas like hands, feet or shoulders. I know that many people will have concerns about lying on their front – or getting on and off the couch. You might have a PICC line, port, stoma or other medical device and none of these are a barrier to getting a massage. These are all things that I can work around, either by adapting your position or using special pillows for support. Some clients would like to remain clothed, and others prefer to be undressed – both are fine.

If you book an appointment with me, I’ll take a brief case history and ask you a few essential questions to make sure that the treatment is safe. I’ll ask you whether there are areas you would like me to avoid, and how I can make you comfortable. We’ll talk about whether there are any positions you prefer to be in or want to avoid and agree on how long you’d like the treatment to take. You can stop at any time.

It's normal to feel tired after a treatment so it’s a good idea to allow plenty of time afterwards to sit down and rehydrate before leaving the clinic.

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Are there any reasons why I can’t have a massage?

If you feel significantly unwell or have a fever, it is not advisable to receive a massage. If you are being treated with Brachytherapy (sometimes referred to as internal radiation) unfortunately I wouldn’t be able to treat you but can welcome you as soon as the implants have been removed. If you have received an infusion of Thiotepa, Methoxtrate, Cytosine, Cyclophosphamide or Cytosan, please allow a minimum of 24 hours before your massage.

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What is medical consent?

If you are undergoing treatment for cancer there may be situations in which manual therapists may prefer to speak with your consultatn firts - this is to make sure that treatment is safe for you. In many cases your doctor may agree it’s safe for you to receive treatment, but there are instances in which your doctor will advise you to hold off on receiving manual therapy or ask your practitioner to adapt treatment or avoid certain areas.

This may be because of the treatment you are undergoing, or because of the nature of the cancer you have. Many people undergoing cancer treatment will experience a reduced platelet count and may bleed or bruise very easily. If cancer has spread to bones, there is an increased risk of fractures, and your doctor may advise against certain therapies. If you are feeling tired and weakened from cancer treatment, deep tissue massage can make you feel worse and your doctor will advise you to avoid it.

Why don’t I need to get medical consent when being treated by an oncology massage therapist?

Oncology massage is a very gentle technique and is always suitable for those living with cancer or undergoing treatment – including those with the presentations described above. Because the technique is always carried out by someone qualified to treat those with cancer, there is no requirement for your doctor to approve the treatment – although I would encourage you to talk to them if you have any concerns. 

Many people choose to see an oncology massage therapist because they find it reassuring to know that their therapist is trained specifically to work with people living with and being treated for cancer and will know how to adapt the treatment to their needs. It also means they can access treatment when they want it, without having to manage the practicalities of obtaining consent from their doctor - which massage therapists who aren’t qualified in oncology massage will be legally required to do before giving treatment.

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