Considered a complementary therapy, Remedial Massage is used to treat a variety of conditions where muscle tightness, soreness or soft tissue restriction is part of the clinical picture. Common presentations like rotator cuff-related pain, gluteal tendinopathy and mechanical back pain will often have soft tissue pain or restriction as part of the presenting problem. We will often recommend remedial massage as part of the overall treatment plan for these patients.

There are other beneficial effects of massage that are not mechanical in nature. These include relaxation, a decrease in anxiety/stress levels, reduction of fatigue and a greater sense of well-being. These positive effects can benefit patients with a Cancer diagnosis who are going through a challenging time of their lives.

What is Oncology massage?
Oncology massage is the use of soft, gradual pressure that combines a number of massage therapy techniques to meet the needs and comfort of the patient. The pressure used in oncology massage is less than conventional remedial massage and the duration of treatment can be tailored to the individual. People who are undergoing treatment or who have completed treatment for Cancer can receive a massage safely to help with stress, fatigue, pain and nausea associated with their treatment. This is provided in a calm, professional setting that allows the patient to relax.

It can also make it easier for them to talk about their experiences which may be helpful, as well as being “time-out” from what can be a challenging and exhausting time of life. A systematic review by Fellows, Barnes and Wilkinson (2008) examined studies on aromatherapy and massage for relieving symptoms in people with cancer. This review looked at 10 studies including eight randomised controlled trials and found that massage consistently reduced self-reported anxiety and depression in these patients. Massage also helped lower nausea and pain levels, but not as consistently.

A large case series study by Cassileth and Vickers (2004) looked at the effects of massage therapy in 3,609 episodes of care at the Memorial Sloan- Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Patients were given a 5 x 8 inch card with numerical rating scales for common symptoms including pain, fatigue, stress/anxiety and nausea. Patients rate each on a 0-10 scale. Cumulative data from this case series showed improvement in symptoms from baseline that varied from 30.6% for “depression” to 40.2% for “pain”. Some of these patients received their massage as an outpatient and their symptom reductions were greater and maintained at 48hrs follow up.

If you have patients with a Cancer Diagnosis:
Oncology Massage is a specific area of practice, so you need to find a therapist who has qualifications in this area. Rachelle, our remedial massage therapist, has completed both the Level 1 and Level 2 Oncology Massage courses which means she is qualified to treat these patients. Patients can see Rachelle privately, or they can access her services with a subsidy through the Wellness Centre at Border Cancer Centre – just ask your patient if they have their vouchers.