Oncology Massage

Learn more about oncology massage by reading blog posts on Oncology Massage Canada.

Is there oncology massage certification?

What is Oncology Massage?

Pain, swelling, stiffness and fatigue are some of the common after effects of cancer treatment that can be better managed with massage therapy.

Both during and after cancer treatment, massage provides a comfortable space in which to rest and restore as well as to regain optimal function.

Massage is both safe and effective when your massage therapist is trained and experienced in understanding cancer treatment, its side effects and the necessary massage adaptations.

Each massage is tailored to meet your unique needs and comfort level, whether it is after surgery or during chemotherapy and radiation.

Massage therapy during breast cancer treatment, after a lumpectomy, or mastectomy can help to manage swelling, post-surgical pain and to regain full mobility.

Janet Penny, RMT is recognized by the Society of Oncology Massage (S4OM) as a preferred practitioner.

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How can massage help during and after cancer treatments?

Massage therapy is an integrative modality that helps to manage many of the side effects that occur during cancer treatment and beyond. It is a non-pharmacological approach to managing symptoms including:

Fatigue
Anxiety and depression
Pain
Pre-surgery massage treatments to calm the body and mind.
Post-surgery massage to reduce local swelling and regain full mobility.
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (eg. tingling and numbness in the hands and feet).
Tissue density after radiation; massage can relieve discomfort and help to regain full movement.
Muscle and joint aches from hormone therapy
Metastatic cancer discomfort
Palliative and hospice support

What to look for in a massage therapist who works with people with cancer?

With no accreditation process, how can you be sure that your massage therapist can safely work with people with cancer?

When looking for a qualified massage therapist be sure to ask them questions such as:

Do you have specialized training in working with people with cancer?
How much experience do you have working with people with cancer?
How would you modify the massage based on my surgery/chemotherapy/radiation/other treatments?
What do you know about lymph node removal and the concern of developing lymphedema?

The Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM.org) has a list of approved oncology massage training courses and trained therapists that can guide you in finding the best support.

How effective is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is increasingly being recommended as a non-pharmacological and safe intervention for many cancer treatment-related side effects.

The effectiveness of massage therapy in managing many side effects is grounded in research evidence and includes support for and managing:

anxiety and depression
sleep problems
local swelling after surgery or radiation
mobility restrictions
neuropathy (tingling, numbness) and neuropathic pain