Frequently Asked Questions

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 is by no means a form of cancer treatment, but 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.

Because the technique is so gentle, and is performed by someone qualified in oncology massage, you don’t need to get consent from your oncologist in the way you would with 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.

How might it benefit me?

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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.

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.

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, 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 if you feel uncomfortable.

I'm not able to travel and I can't get on to a massage couch. Can you come to my home?

If you or your loved one has limited mobility and is most comfortable in a wheelchair or in their own bed, I can provide their treatment at home. I can travel within a 5 mile radius - please give me a call and we can discuss.