Transcript It’s All Too Much - Central Cancer Network

Massage for Cancer
Patients
Amanda Bell
Neuromuscular and Oncology Massage Therapist
Napier City Massage Therapy.
What is Oncology Massage?
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A deeply relaxing form of massage, using
gentle and slow strokes to promote relaxation
Adaptations are made for site, pressure and
position
Does not aim to work out muscle kinks, but can
include scar massage.
Is tailored to how someone is feeling on the day.
What does it do?
How can relaxation help?
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Gentle oncology massage can bring about the
Relaxation Response which is
"The relaxation response is a physical state of deep
rest that changes the physical and emotional
responses to stress... and the opposite of the fight or
flight response."
Herbert Benson, M.D.
The Benefits of the Relaxation Response
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Our levels of the stress hormone Cortisol drop and
the hormones, such as anandamide and dopamine
that make us feel good go up when we relax
The effect is
Improved sleep quality
Better digestion and kidney function
Reduced pain
Reduced anxiety
It just feels good!!
Some Massage and Cancer Myths
What beliefs do you have around
massage and cancer?
Dispelling the Myths
 Cancer CANNOT be spread by massage
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A gentle massage has as strong an impact on circulation as
a gentle walk around the block
Cancer cells are actually very fragile, and easily damaged
by turbulence in the blood stream
 Cancer cannot be passed to the person giving the
massage
 “Massage” does not have to mean deep tissue,
remedial manipulation of the tissues
 Not all cancer patients are fragile - some are
coping with some very tough treatments!
Who Can Have Massage?
There is NO ONE who
can’t be touched
Who Can Give Massage?
 With
a little knowledge, anyone can!
And it can be really beneficial for both the receiver
and the giver.
Teaching the Carers
Giving loving touch to loved ones
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Being the loved one of a cancer patient can be
a frustrating role.
Learning to massage their loved one at home
can give a carer a sense of purpose and being
able to do something positive.
It also promotes bonding and helps with the
grieving process
For More Information
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Amanda Bell
Napier City Massage Therapy
www.napiermassage.co.nz
[email protected]
06 833 6162