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Oncology Massage (OM) is a specialised massage technique that safely address the needs of a cancer patient throughout their whole journey:
From initial diagnosis
To treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation
Through survivorship
Palliative care
End of life care
Oncology Massage is offered using slow gentle rhythmical strokes that lightly engages the fascia. With the fascia mobilised and rehydrated through gentle touch, the cells can flow with greater ease around the body. This can lead to the engagement of the relaxation response therefore leading to decreased levels of stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality and helping the body deal with the side effects of treatment.
Q and A's
Can I have OM with chemotherapy?
Yes, we will work with you and plan your OM at a time that suits you and your treatment schedule. Each client has an individual response to chemotherapy, some like their OM before their chemo, others a few days post chemo. We will work in with you and your individual needs. N.B. Your Oncology Massage Therapist will wear single use gloves for your OM if your last chemo treatment falls inside a 72 hour window.
Can I have OM with Radiation therapy?
Yes, as a general guideline, we do not massage over the radiation site during radiation treatment plus the same amount of time post radiation treatment. For example radiation treatment is 6 weeks, plus 6 weeks post radiation treatment. We take note of both the treatment site and the exit portal and work around these sites.
Can I have OM pre or post surgery?
Yes, pre surgery is a great option for relaxing and letting go! It may help soften the fascia around the surgical site.
Yes, OM post surgery is a great support in the healing process. Massage will not be applied over the surgical site for at least 6 weeks post surgery, or until your surgeon has given you clearance for OM. However, OM can be applied to areas around the surgical site right after surgery. Please remember that fascia is a continuous web that runs around the body, so OM on the legs and arms will still have a positive affect on the chest or abdominal region!
Can OM support Leukaemia patients?
Yes, those undertaking treatments for blood cancers can have OM - Please only choose a fully trained Oncology Massage Therapist (OMT)!
With a fully trained OMT, the touch is as light as a feather, so light that the patient is probably placing more pressure on their skin when towel drying after a shower.
Does OM spread disease?
There is no scientific evidence to prove that the light touch of OM spreads disease. With many people still taking on regular life, for example, caring for their family, working, exercising and as mentioned earlier towelling dry after a shower, the light touch of OM is lighter than the touch of many of these daily tasks. We see OM as integrative therapy that supports you in achieving your daily tasks.
Did you know!!!
There are many Cancer Hospitals within Australia that have their own Oncology Massage Therapist on staff or an Oncology Massage Clinic within the hospital! How fantastic is that!
These Cancer centres have embraced Oncology Massage as part of their Integrative Health and Wellbeing Programs offering Oncology Massage to support their clients!
In Sydney
Chris O'Brien Lifehouse
Kinghorn Cancer Centre
In Melbourne
Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
In Brisbane, Willow Wellness is here to support you in your individual needs and walk with you in your cancer journey.
Not in Brisbane Find an Oncology Massage Therapist near you in The OMT Directory.
Oncology Massage Fact Sheet from Massage and Myotherapy Australia - Click Here
Have more questions? Interested in how Willow Wellness can support you through your cancer journey? Contact Ruth on phone or email, we're always happy to discuss any concerns/questions!
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