October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. More and more people are turning to massage for health reasons, and research continues to support the use of massage therapy to help manage some of the side effects that cancer treatment can produce. The side effects of cancer can include pain, fatigue, nausea, sleep problems and more.
According to research, massage therapy shows promise for reducing pain intensity/severity, fatigue and anxiety in cancer populations. Additional research indicates massage can improve mood and reduce depression in women with breast cancer.
Another recent study supports the use of massage therapy in breast cancer patients. The research concludes that massage therapy can be beneficial for helping depression/mood disorders in cancer patients, and this study shows that it may help chemotherapy-related nausea.
Some of the main benefits of Oncology Massage are:
Pain and Symptom Management: Oncology massage can significantly alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cancer and its treatments. It helps in reducing muscle tension, easing joint pain, and addressing neuropathy symptoms. This can improve a patient's overall quality of life.
Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Cancer diagnosis and treatment can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety. Oncology massage promotes relaxation, reduces stress hormones, and helps cancer patients find moments of peace and tranquility amidst their challenging journey.
Improved Sleep Quality: Many cancer patients struggle with sleep disturbances. Regular oncology massage sessions can help individuals sleep better, which is crucial for their physical and emotional well-being.
Enhanced Immune Function: Research suggests that massage therapy can boost the immune system. For cancer patients, a stronger immune system is vital for their ability to fight off infections and recover from treatment-related side effects.
Emotional Support: The emotional toll of cancer cannot be underestimated. Oncology massage therapists provide a safe and nurturing environment where patients can express their feelings and receive emotional support. This holistic approach can help them cope better with the psychological challenges they face.
Increased Body Awareness: Oncology massage encourages patients to reconnect with their bodies, fostering a sense of control and self-awareness. This can empower them to actively participate in their healing process.
Why You Should Train in Oncology Massage
Expand Your Expertise: As someone deeply interested in complementary and alternative medicine, adding oncology massage to your skillset allows you to offer a more comprehensive range of services. It demonstrates your commitment to holistic health and enhances your credibility as a practitioner.
Fulfill a Growing Demand: The need for qualified oncology massage therapists is on the rise as more individuals seek complementary therapies to support their cancer treatments. By training in this field, you can tap into a growing market and make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients.
Make a Positive Impact: Oncology massage is not just about technique; it's about compassion and providing a healing touch to those in need. By becoming an oncology massage therapist, you can directly contribute to the well-being of cancer patients, helping them navigate their challenging journey with more comfort and support.
Incorporating oncology massage into your skillset is a step towards enriching your practice and making a profound impact on individuals facing cancer. The benefits, both for your clients and your career, are substantial. By offering this specialised form of care, you can further your goals of building a successful business while providing valuable support to those in need.
With many insurance companies now insisting on therapists being trained in Oncology massage, Active Health Group has developed a very popular Oncology Massage workshop, details of which can be found on our website at www.activehealthgroup.co.uk