Massage for People with cancer

Complementary therapies are increasingly being offered to cancer and palliative care patients to help them through and support orthodox treatments. They offer the patient a relaxing space in time which is theirs, outside of normal day and treatment schedules.

Massage fulfils a basic human need for touch and comfort and there is no reason why simple, effleurage, stroking massage movements cannot be employed to fulfil this basic need for cancer patients inside and outside of palliative care.

I have recently attended a study day at St Wilfrids’ Hospice in Chichester where I learnt to adapt massage techniques specifically for people with cancer. The use of aromatherapy oils, (suggested by St Wilfrids’ tutors), enhances the experience of the massage, uplifting and/or relaxing the patient; not compulsory but recommended. The massage, normally a back massage, is not vigorous; it is like applying body lotion to oneself, or having it applied by someone else.

The massage includes brief ‘holds’ which encourage muscles and therefore the patient to relax. Scars, radiotherapy burns, lymph glands and other areas which need to be avoided will be, along with any areas which are requested by the patient, (lower ribs on a very ticklish patient for example).

Foot or hand massage can be equally as effective and are more practical in some circumstances.

I shall be studying again at St Wilfrids’ in 2007 for their Certificate in Holistic Palliative Care for Complementary Therapists.

Please contact me for further information.