1. Specialist Training
   A certified therapist in oncology massage has undergone specialist training to understand cancer pathology, treatment side effects and how to safely adapt massage for medical conditions. A regular therapist may not be aware of these complexities despite being trained and qualified in an alternative therapy. These specific massage therapists are trained to help reduce numerous symptoms associated with individuals living with cancer.
2. Pressure and Technique
   Regular massage often involves deeper pressure or vigorous techniques, such as sports or deep tissue massage. Oncology massage is a specialist form of massage that uses light, slow and mindful strokes, carefully adapted to suit a client's energy levels and comfort.  A bespoke plan identifying a clients needs will ensure they get the help where they need it most.
3.  Safety Considerations
   – Oncology massage requires a thorough understanding of:
   – Lymphoedema risk (especially after lymph node removal)
   – Medical devices like ports or PICC lines
   – Fragile skin from chemotherapy or radiation
   – Bone fragility or risk of blood clots
4. Focus on Emotional Support
   The specialist massage environment provides space for emotional healing, helping you feel held and supported through a challenging time. It is not just a gentler version of regular or a sports massage; it is a completely tailored approach grounded in compassion and clinical understanding. Massage helps many cancer patients experience a space where they can experience comfort and relaxation, nurture and support.

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
   Massage encourages the body to shift into "rest and digest" mode, which is essential for overall well-being. This state helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress and promotes emotional calm. By promoting relaxation, this type of massage can provide significant benefits, such as alleviating anxiety, helping with nausea and insomnia and general feelings of discomfort to help you feel better while undergoing cancer and after treatment.
2. Relieves Pain and Discomfort
   Massage for cancer pain relief uses gentle techniques to ease tension, nerve pain and muscle soreness, without overwhelming sensitive tissues. By utilising soft pressure and nurturing movements, treatment aims to enhance the overall well-being of patients. As a complementary therapy, it works in harmony with conventional treatments to aid relaxation and alleviate discomfort, creating a sense of tranquillity.
3.  Improves Sleep Quality
   This specialst massage supports deeper rest by calming the nervous system and easing physical discomfort that may interfere with sleep. By addressing both physical and emotional challenges, it can create an environment that encourages a sense of calm and restorative sleep, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and symptoms of insomnia.
4. Helps with Fatigue and Nausea
   Many clients feel more energised and less nauseous after receiving this treatment, even if the relief is only temporary. The soothing effects of massage can help alleviate some of the side effects often associated with cancer treatments, providing a much-needed respite and improving their quality of life.
5. Supports Lymphatic Flow
   Oncology Massage for lymphoedema after cancer encourages healthy circulation and can reduce swelling with light, rhythmic strokes.  The gentle techniques used in this approach can enhance lymphatic flow and improve circulation, which is crucial for reducing swelling and improving levels of comfort.
6. Aids Emotional Healing
   Time on the massage table often becomes a quiet space to process emotions, release tension, feel relaxed and not judged. This experience is particularly significant as it provides a safe haven for individuals navigating the challenges of pain, depression and fatigue. Massage is a gentle, therapeutic touch that promotes a sense of well-being, allowing clients to connect with their bodies in a nurturing way. This dedicated time not only aids in physical relief but also supports emotional healing, fostering a sense of peace and comfort.
7. Rebuilds Connection with Your Body
   Cancer can cause people to feel disconnected from their bodies, leading to a sense of alienation and discomfort. Oncology massage plays a vital role in helping individuals reconnect with their bodies. By providing a gentle and compassionate touch, it fosters a nurturing environment that encourages self-awareness. This supportive practice encourages individuals to rebuild their relationship with their bodies and regain a sense of control.

When receiving massage during or after cancer treatment, it's vital to work with a therapist who understands:

• How to adapt for surgical scars, ports, or PICC lines (these deliver medication directly into the veins)
• The effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and medications
• Contraindications like blood clots, low immunity or skin sensitivity
• The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis

My approach is always compassionate, safe and grounded in specialist knowledge. I believe that you are never just a diagnosis, but rather a whole person and this allows me to address the unique physical and emotional needs of a person affected by cancer. This bespoke approach helps clients to feel more relaxed, safe in the knowledge that they are going to receive a special massage technique to help aid their recovery.

Yes. Oncology massage is safe when performed by a trained therapist. This gentle and soothing therapy focuses on the unique needs of cancer patients, ensuring that each session is tailored to provide maximum comfort and safety. During a full consultation, I assess your individual situation and design a treatment plan and massage routine that may include techniques like deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage and reflexology to relieve any discomfort. If you are in any pain or discomfort due to cancer, I adapt every aspect of the massage to address your needs on the day, helping to reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being. 

For more guidance, see Macmillan Cancer Support – Massage Therapy.

The impact of cancer doesn't end when treatment does. Many people continue to experience symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety or lymphoedema, which can significantly affect their quality of life. Ongoing massage for cancer survivors offers valuable support as you transition into recovery and beyond, helping to alleviate these symptoms and promote a sense of health and wellbeing.

If you or someone you care about is affected by cancer, I am here to help, gently, safely and with compassion.

Because everybody deserves care and every person deserves to feel a little bit more like themselves again.

Contact Sarah at SLS Therapy for more information.