oncology massage.
The American Cancer Society considers oncology massage "one of the most supportive and helpful complementary therapies available" to patients and views oncology massage as helpful both physically and emotionally because "it soothes the soul and the mind" Oncology massage is a client-specific, customized massage session designed to meet the unique and changing needs of someone in treatment for cancer or with a history of cancer treatment.
A safe massage plan generally revolves around the side effects (both short- and long-term) of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Oncology massage can only be provided by a massage therapist who has received training in the specifics of cancer and cancer treatment. This training is more about cancer and less about massage. When you are receiving an oncology massage, you are receiving traditional, established massage therapy techniques that have been adapted to account for your unique health situation. Typical modalities include Swedish massage, reflexology, craniosacral therapy, relaxation and stress reduction massage and manual lymph drainage for oncology patients with lymphedema. The changes that might be made to a massage that makes it an "oncology massage" can fall under any number of categories, but typically they will be related to session length, pressure, positioning and areas of specific compromise or concern like mediports, bone metastases or skin reactions to treatment.
general Benefits of oncology Massage:
Increased alertness and mental clarity
Reduced anxiety
Less nausea
Reduced pain
Deep relaxation
Reduced stress
Improved sleep
Eased constipation
Benefits of Oncology Massage Following Surgery:
Improved mobility and appearance of surgical scars
Reduced swelling
Improved range of motion
Easier adaptation to implants and expanders
Reduced anxiety in advance of surgery
Easier recovery from anesthesia
Reduced post-surgical pain
Benefits of Oncology Massage Following Radiation or Chemotherapy
Reduced anxiety in advance of and during treatment
Improved peripheral neuropathy
Reduced post-treatment fatigue
Improved appetite
Emotional Benefits of Oncology Massage
Improved body self-image
Restored hope
Satisfaction in participating actively in a part of the healing process
Decreased anxiety
Decreased depression
Increased feelings of well-being
Being pleasantly distracted
LICENSED massage therapist
Linda mitchell
Linda has worked within the medical field as a Licensed Practical Nurse working with all ages in long term care facilities, as well as home care. Her continued path led her to natural practices initiating her journey in massage, craniosacral therapy, somatic emotional release, Reiki and Integrative Energy Therapy. Her work includes working with both humans, and horses. Mitchell gained her expertise from the Institute of Therapeutic Massage, Center of Being and Upledger Institute. Linda's spiritual path led her to Unity of Sussex County where she embraced working with the YOU (Youth of Unity - Teens), and as a chaplain.