Massage and Reflexology for Cancer Care and Recovery
Massage and reflexology can provide numerous benefits for those with a current cancer diagnosis or in remission.
These therapies are carefully tailored to your needs and offer a variety of physical and emotional benefits, including:
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Reducing stress: Helps counterbalance the effects of stress on the body and mind.
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Relaxing the body: Eases muscles and nerve fibers, which may help reduce pain.
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Releasing endorphins: Produces a natural analgesic effect to help manage discomfort.
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Promoting better breathing: Encourages deeper and easier breaths.
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Easing fatigue: Boosts the immune system to help combat feelings of exhaustion.
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Improving sleep patterns: Enhances alertness and mental clarity through better rest.
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Supporting digestion: Stimulates bowel activity for improved digestive health.
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Calming the mind: Lowers cortisol levels, helping to quiet an overly busy mind.
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Providing time-out: A place for positive focus on your body in a non-medicalised setting.
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Improving mobility and circulation: Enhances joint flexibility, range of motion, and blood flow.
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Reducing scar appearance: Oncology massage can help minimize the visibility of operation scars.
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Aiding emotional recovery: Supports mood adjustment during treatment or remission.
Before Booking
If you currently have a cancer diagnosis, please reach out if you would like an initial discussion before booking your first session.
It’s important to consult a member of your primary medical team (your oncologist, GP, or specialist nurse) before proceeding with complementary therapies. They may have guidance or specific recommendations based on your specific medical treatment, or on your current situation eg avoiding massage for a few days if you experience neutropenia.
Most doctors consider massage and reflexology to be helpful for managing stress and alleviating certain side effects associated with medical treatment. However, medical clearance ensures the safest and most beneficial experience for you.
Important Notes
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Notification Disclaimer: You will need to sign a disclaimer confirming that your medical team has been notified about your intention to receive massage or reflexology treatments before we can proceed.
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Communication with Your Medical Team: If they wish me to, I am happy to communicate directly with your medical team to ensure your complementary therapy is fully aligned with your health needs.
Are you looking for an Oncology-trained Massage Therapist nearer to you than Kingston? Have a look at the Butterfly Touch directory, NB: click the "redo search when map moves" box to see all the listings.
Prices: £70/hr or £85/75mins Massage, £65/hr Reflexology
Health Consultation
All new clients need to complete a health consultation form before their first visit, as this enables me to be understand any wider issues which need to be taken in to consideration during massage/reflexology. Prior to working with people currently with a cancer diagnosis, I will additionally also need to take some details about any medical treatment and I find that a telephone conversation before booking is usually best for that purpose.
Oncology Therapies FAQs
Is Oncology Massage the Same as Regular Massage?
Yes and No. While oncology massage shares similarities with regular massage, such as soothing both body and mind and offering a stress-free "time-out," it is uniquely tailored to your needs. Oncology massage is designed to accommodate your specific symptoms or any side effects you may experience from medical treatments.
This can involve:
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Adjustments in body positioning to ensure comfort.
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Shortened treatments if needed.
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Awareness of treatment-specific issues, such as skin soreness.
Before each session, we’ll discuss which parts of your body you’d prefer to have massaged. This could include the full body or just your hands and arms, legs and feet, or shoulders, neck, and head. This flexibility ensures the treatment aligns with how you feel that day and your current situation. The main physical difference is that oncology massage uses much lighter pressure, which is incredibly calming and places no additional strain on your body systems.
Can Massage or Reflexology Spread Cancer?
No. There is no evidence to suggest that complementary therapies cause cancer to metastasize (spread). The techniques used, such as adapted light-touch pressure, are no more stimulating to the body than gentle exercise or a warm shower.
Will Massage or Reflexology Affect My Radiotherapy or Chemotherapy Effectiveness?
No. Massage or reflexology does not interfere with chemo or radiotherapy and will not reduce their effectiveness. In fact, many oncologists encourage patients to receive complementary therapies alongside hospital cancer treatments. These therapies are known to reduce anxiety and help manage certain side effects.
Can I Receive Massage or Reflexology During My Cancer Treatment?
Oncology massage and reflexology are suitable for most individuals during their medical cancer treatment, including:
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While receiving radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
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During recovery periods.
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For those in palliative care.
There are a few exception periods during certain oncology treatments where it may be best to delay for a few days. This is why it’s important for the therapist to stay informed about your medical progress and for your primary care team to know that you are receiving massage.
Should I Remove My Wig During Massage or Reflexology?
That decision is entirely yours. Many clients feel more comfortable and relaxed without their wig during complementary therapies. If you let me know that you’re wearing one, I will invite you to remove it if you wish. Complete privacy is guaranteed, and a mirror is available for you to put your wig back on after treatment.
How Are You Qualified to Work With Cancer Patients?
I have been in practice since 2011 and have significant experience in this field. In addition to diplomas in reflexology, massage, anatomy, physiology, and pathology, I hold:
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A specialist qualification in ‘Complementary Therapies in Cancer Care for Massage & Reflexology.’
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Certification in ‘Advanced Clinical Massage for Scar Tissue.’
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Specialist qualifications for working with patients who develop lymphoedema after cancer treatment.
Many of my regular clients are currently undergoing or have completed oncology treatment.
Have More Questions?
Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have. You’re welcome to email them or arrange a time for a phone conversation. I’m happy to address any questions or concerns and provide more information to help you feel at ease.