Massage is appropriate for anyone going through treatment or with a history of cancer. The only time massage is contraindicated is the few days when/if a patient is receiving radiation treatment internally (such as with implants or orally taken radioactive substances). Any other time is safe (during external radiation therapy, chemotherapy, after surgery, etc).
Many clients enjoy a massage because it helps reduce nausea and tiredness. It also provides a welcoming distraction to the patient if he/she is having to spend several hours hooked up to machines! If lymph nodes were removed, lymph drainage massage can help decrease swelling.
Cancer massage is very gentle and soothing, and can really brighten someone's day. Often cancer patients feel disconnected to their bodies or only feel pain, so massage can help bring back a positive mind-body connection.
I am a licensed massage therapist, and just completed a cancer massage class, and am looking forward to assisting those in various stages of cancer illness and recovery. It was an extremely informative class.
I read the instructor's book, "Medicine Hands: Massage Therapy for People with Cancer," just prior to the class and felt extra prepared. We students were quite surprised to learn that this was the very first time a cancer massage class had been offered in the Southern California area!
As a result, we are all very eager to approach hospitals and clinics regarding setting up massage sessions.
If any of you know of someone currently going through treatment or many years beyond treatment, please let them know that I have received certification and can answer their questions.
Julia Morrow, CMT/LMT
massagebyjulia.com