Evidence-Based
Oncology Massage
in Australian Cancer Care
Introduction
Introduction: Oncology massage is a specialised form of therapeutic massage designed to support individuals undergoing cancer treatment, recovery, and palliative care. It is a gentle, evidence-based approach that helps alleviate symptoms, enhance quality of life, and improve overall well-being. The role of oncology massage across the cancer care continuum—pre-treatment, during treatment, post-treatment, and for those living with advanced cancer—is increasingly recognised within Australian healthcare settings
Pre - Treatment Phase
Preparing the Body and Mind
Before starting cancer treatment, oncology massage can help prepare the body and mind by:
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Reducing stress and anxiety, leading to improved emotional resilience.
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Enhancing circulation and flexibility, which may support overall physical preparedness for treatment.
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Promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and reducing pre-treatment fatigue.
During Treatment Phase
Symptom Management and Support
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can cause a range of side effects. Oncology massage during treatment can:
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Help reduce nausea and vomiting commonly associated with chemotherapy.
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Ease muscle tension and pain, providing non-pharmacological relief for treatment-related discomfort.
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Support lymphatic flow, reducing the risk of lymphoedema.
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Promote relaxation and emotional well-being, reducing treatment- related anxiety and stress.
During Treatment Phase
Symptom Management and Support
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can cause a range of side effects. Oncology massage during treatment can:
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Help reduce nausea and vomiting commonly associated with chemotherapy.
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Ease muscle tension and pain, providing non-pharmacological relief for treatment-related discomfort.
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Support lymphatic flow, reducing the risk of lymphoedema.
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Promote relaxation and emotional well-being, reducing treatment- related anxiety and stress.
Post-Treatment Phase
Enhancing Recovery and Rehabilitation
After active treatment concludes, oncology massage remains a valuable tool for recovery by:
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Addressing lingering pain, stiffness, and muscular imbalances.
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Assisting with scar tissue management and post-surgical healing.
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Reducing stress, anxiety, and depression associated with the post-treatment adjustment phase.
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Improving sleep quality and overall relaxation.
Living with Advanced Cancer
Enhancing Quality of Life
For individuals with advanced or palliative-stage cancer, oncology massage plays a crucial role in supportive care:
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Providing comfort and relief from pain, enhancing overall quality of life.
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Reducing symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and nausea.
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Offering a compassionate, human touch that supports emotional and psychological well-being.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Oncology Massage Research has shown that oncology massage can significantly improve symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, depression, and anxiety in cancer patients. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals highlight its role in reducing stress hormone levels, enhancing immune function, and improving patients' overall well-being. Leading organisations such as the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) and the Oncology Massage Training (OMT) program in Australia provide guidelines and training to ensure safe, evidence-based massage therapy for cancer patients.
Living with Advanced Cancer
Enhancing Quality of Life
For individuals with advanced or palliative-stage cancer, oncology massage plays a crucial role in supportive care:
-
Providing comfort and relief from pain, enhancing overall quality of life.
-
Reducing symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and nausea.
-
Offering a compassionate, human touch that supports emotional and psychological well-being.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Oncology Massage Research has shown that oncology massage can significantly improve symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, depression, and anxiety in cancer patients. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals highlight its role in reducing stress hormone levels, enhancing immune function, and improving patients' overall well-being. Leading organisations such as the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) and the Oncology Massage Training (OMT) program in Australia provide guidelines and training to ensure safe, evidence-based massage therapy for cancer patients.
Oncology massage is a critical component of integrative cancer care, providing symptom relief and improving the physical and emotional well-being of patients across all stages of the cancer journey. Recognised within Australian healthcare settings, its role continues to grow as more research supports its benefits. Patients and healthcare providers alike are encouraged to incorporate oncology massage as a complementary therapy to enhance quality of life and support overall treatment outcomes.
For more information, consult certified oncology massage therapists through professional associations such as ATMS or the Oncology Massage Training Program in Australia.
Conclusion