Oncology Massage
It is often said that Cancer is a contraindication to massage - but this is mainly based on fear and lack of knowledge.
The evidence does not support the theory that massage is or can be harmful. It appears to be a misconception based on fear. As a Level 5 Therapist with also a post graduate diploma in Oncology Massage, I can say this is not the case. Adapted massage has many benefits, which are supported by evidence and research as well as anecdotal experiences.
Summary of the benefits of massage to those going through treatment for cancer
Short-term benefits
- Reduced anxiety, depressed mood and anger in breast cancer patients
- Increased vigor (breast cancer patients)
- Reduced mood disturbances and perceived stress levels
- Improved sleep quality
- Improved quality of life (breast cancer patients)
- Reduced pain and improvement of mood, reduced stress levels
- Reduced perception of pain, nausea and increased relaxation after 10 minute (5 minute per foot) foot massage
- Pain intensity, pulse rate, and respiratory rate significantly reduced immediately after the massages. At study entry, the massage group reported higher pain intensity, which decreased by 42% (25% reduction in the control group).
- Reduced anxiety scores, depression, general fatigue, reduced motivation fatigue, and emotional fatigue
- Reduced depression and improved sleep
- Reduced heart rate and lower blood pressure
- Decrease in physical discomfort, group fatigue, and mood disturbance. The effect of massage on mood disturbances was greater when treated continuously by the same therapist.
Long-term benefits
- Reduced depression and hostility, increased urinary dopamine, serotonin values, natural killer cell number and lymphocytes in breast cancer patients
- Reduced mood disturbances and perceived stress levels (breast cancer patients)
Woodhall Well Being
Belmont View
Green Lane
Woodhall Spa
Lincs LN10 6QY
Contact details
E: Contact us
T: 01526 888331
M: 07825 952076
“I want to place on record the very sincere appreciation for C.... and the way you have helped her through breast cancer, chemotherapy, reconstruction etc these past 15 months.
Not only have you been most able and professional your concern, understanding and affection have played a great part in her recovery. We cannot thank you enough.”
Name Provided
“Due to the care and skill of Stacy Cleaver I have not considered visiting another therapist, locally for over three years.
Stacy has the rare ability of being able to combine a deep knowledge and understanding of her industry and products with the warmth and care of a friend and yet, at no time has familiarity breed complacency.”
Nicola Brown
“Stacy’s attention to detail in discussing every aspect of pre and post treatment care is as thorough today as it was on the day of my first treatment by her. Stacy is a credit to her profession and the highest compliment that I can pay is in continuing to recommend her to both my closest friends and family.”
Kathryn Paling - Champney’s
“Stacy takes a highly professional and good humoured approach to her work and tailors both her approach and treatments to her clients. She is extremely knowledgeable in her field and her skills range from luxury facials through to Reflexology and Reiki healing. I always feel totally confident in her hands.”
Krys Grudniewicz
“I have found Stacy to be one of the most capable individuals that I have had the pleasure of dealing with. My treatments by Stacy have been by far the most comprehensive and professional.
The care, concern and time that Stacy devotes to her clientele, causes one to look no further.”
Birute M Adams
“Stacy is very cheerful, down-to-earth person, who relates well to people of all ages and walks of life.
Confident and friendly and able to put new clients quickly at their ease.”
Sarah Johnson
