Massage And Breast Cancer and breast health issues

95 members

As an instructor and a breast cancer survivor I would like to offer my expertise as well as learn and have discussions about other people's experience regarding issues of massage and breast cancer and breast health.

Comments Discussions Members

Load Previous Comments

Nancy L. Ring

I found some on an old hard drive but not the one from England. I am not sure where I found these. I will post in discussion if there are no objections.

Nov 24, 2009
Carol J McDaniel

Please post any and all research and papers. Here are two from Dr. Bruno Chikly (Lymph Drainage Therapy):LDT optimising the health of yor breast_Dr.BrunoCHikly.pdf
http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/207/Lym...

Nov 24, 2009
lee kalpin

I am another MT who had breast cancer, in 2006. I had a lumpectomy and removal of one axillary lymph node. It did have some effect on my work as there was nerve damage from the lymph node surgery that caused pain and numbness down the arm. Symptoms gradually decreased but it took a couple of months. There was also damage to the serratus anterior muscle from the breast surgery. That still causes discomfort if I do a lot of strenuous massage.
I find that these are aspects of the treatment that we are not informed about. No doctor warned me of these possible after effects, but now when I complain about them doctors say "oh yes, that is typical after BC surgery.

Dec 3, 2009
lee kalpin

To add to my comment, I did self massage of the scar on the breast to decrease adhesions and get good healing, and that was very effective.

Dec 3, 2009
Marilyn St.John

Thanks for mentioning this, Lee ~ I had a client ask me about the scar tissue just this week. She had a lumpectomy five weeks ago and has healed nicely, but now has a "nodule" of scar tissue at the incision site. I'm thinking self massage on this scar tissue would decrease the bump & straighten out the collagen a bit, but am I correct in my thinking? I haven't experienced this for myself, so any info would be appreciated.

Dec 6, 2009
Bill Curry

If I can suggest! I work in an oncology unit, and work with scars. What I do is, typical myofascial release technique, where you twist the skin just slightly in both directions. This stretches the skin just slightly, making room for collagen to form between the skin cells. There by making the skin soft and supple, avoiding a keloid scar. I also recommend using Vaseline on the site, applying it as often as possible. Basically keeping it wet with the Vaseline. I will also use "Well-in-Hand" Therapy oil. Well there you have my secrets. Hope this helps someone.
Bill

Dec 6, 2009
lee kalpin

YOu can massage to help good healing of the scar, and also teach self massage to the client. I agree with Bill, who has experience in this. It is important to keep the scar pliable and lift it away from underlying tissue to keep it mobile

It's wonderful when there is massage therapy available for women with scars from breast cancer. There is so much helpful work than can be done.
By the way, women who have had breast reduction surgery can also benfit from these techniques to ensure that the scar heals well

Dec 6, 2009
Marilyn St.John

Thanks to you both! I was on the right track after all. The client will be coming in this week, so now I feel more confident to share this with her, but now I do have a question: I understand lifting the superficial tissue away from the subcutaneous, but without knowing how deep the actual incision and suture structure goes, is the "lifting" wise? (Forgive my ignorance, I am just way more familiar with how surgery is stitched-up on areas when there is underlying musculature.) My inclination is to just work on the superficial aspect, but then the "nodule" won't smooth out. Can somebody please help me understand more about the repair process? I have a surgical background enough to know the basics, just not for breast tissue.

Dec 7, 2009
Bill Curry

CYA - if you know what that means. Then to cover yourself I would not do any pickup for the first 2 1/2 to 3 months. Twisting only for time leading up to that. I would allow for the incision to heal on a deep level. I would concentrate on the skin itself, and not worry about the deep tissue until it heals. The possibility of doing deep tissue harm is to risky for me. In the event I encounter a problem like this, normally I just ask the doctor what to do to cover my tracks. Then I can say, it was the doctor that recommended it. In the case with any surgery, I almost always ask for the doctors phone number and confer with her physician. All the doctors that I have spoke to, seem to admire the fact that I was not going in blind and I was humble enough to ask, and were glade to make recommendations. When I speak to a physician, I try to put them on a pedestal of sorts, and I seem to get more information that way. They usually have egos, and they liked to be stroked, no pun intended. After surgery it is also a good idea to get a physicians referral. ABMP I believe has Physicians referral forms on their site under forms, and I am sure AMTA does as well.
Glade to be of help.
Bill

Dec 7, 2009
Marilyn St.John

Thanks Bill, this is wise information and I shall do exactly that. I also had not noticed the referral forms, so thanks for the suggestion. I appreciate your help.

Dec 7, 2009
Eeris Kallil CMT

I Do agree with Bill- always be on the safe side. Bringing the Doctor's attention to the nodule is also very important. I know of someone who has a nodule after her mastectomy right on the incision line and it did not go a way. It turned out to be cancer cell that were left out. Its probably Scar tissue but make sure the her doctors agrees.

Dec 9, 2009
Robin Wiggs

Glad I found this group. Not only am I a Massage Therapist but also a Healing Touch Buddy ,...a group of Healing Touch Practitioners who give energy treatments for breast cancer patients free for 1 year.

Jan 11, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Dear friends
Letting you all know that I will be teaching my 'Massage Therapy Supports Healing From Breast Cancer '(MTSHFBC) in Boulder, CO and Chicago IL.
Boulder,CO: March 12,13,14
Chicago, IL: June 11,12,13
CE hours: 23
As well as
Core Alignment Technique (CAT)
Boulder, CO September 18-19
CE hours: 15
Courses are NCBTMB approved.
For more information please go to my website www.bodyworkwisdom.com
If you would like more information please feel free to contact me here or email: eeriskallil@aol.com

Jan 27, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Hi all, Just letting you know that Olga's discussion topic inspired me to change the name of our group to "Massage And Breast Cancer and breast health issues" sounds more appropriate for our discussions.
Thanks for all your contributions so far!

Feb 18, 2010
Olga Chwascinska

Thanks Eeris! Indeed, there is plenty to discuss about all kinds of breast health issues. Peace, O.

Feb 18, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

My workshop: Massage Theapy supports Healing from Breast Cancer in Boulder CO is postponed to October 22-24. Pleast contact me for more info!
Eeris www.bodyworkwisdom.com

Mar 1, 2010
Olga Chwascinska

Dear group,
I posted a discussion a little while ago (first link just above - Breast health issues...) On Friday, I posted an important question to which there has been "silence". Please take a look at this discussion and offer any words you might have to the situation.
Thanks! O.

Mar 2, 2010
Heather Sprouse, LMT

I just wanted to say, I am ecstatic that I found this group!! I have 2 patients at the moment, 1 of which is a breast cancer survivor and had to have a mastectomy of both breasts and another of which is undergoing chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. I really have learned alot from reading everyones comments, and I have also been reading the Breast Massage book by Debra Curties (which is a really good book by the way). I hope to continue learning from your comments and hope to have some really good advice to give other massage therapists in the future!! Thanks everyone!!

Mar 11, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Heather- Glad this is helpful. There is so much knowledge and support here on this website. You might have noticed that I am teaching a class specific for massage and breast cancer. Let me know if you would like more information.

Mar 13, 2010
Heather Sprouse, LMT

I did see that Eeris!! I would love information on your class my email is hlsprouse@ymail.com.

Mar 13, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

I will be attending the Oncology Massage Healing Summit at the end of April- is anyone else planing on it? Let me know so we can connect!
http://www.s4om.org/div1/index.htm

Mar 21, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Oncology summit was amazing! Next one is in 2013

May 17, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Hurry!
Registration deadline for MTSHFBC (Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer) training in Chicago is approaching May 25th.
For many years breast cancer patients were reluctant to receive massage. Sign up now to learn all the essential information and techniques on providing a safe massage for your client with breast cancer.
There are still spots open for June 11,12,14 in Chicago.
Next training in Oct- Boulder CO.
Please check my website for more information http://bodyworkwisdom.com/id2.html

May 17, 2010
sumayah

do you have to have breast cancer to have a breast massage? is breast massage an alternative to breast implants?

May 30, 2010
Bill Curry

If you are talking about the registration deadline for MTSHFBC (Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer) training in Chicago, I can not help you there. As for getting breast massage in general, to the contrary. Having breast massage can reduce toxicity in the breast, help change it from acidic to alkaline, and aid in monitoring for any changes or abnormalities. About 95% of breast abnormalities can be ameliorated, simple by have the breast massaged. So a breast massage could find something that otherwise would not be found. I had one lady who got a mamo every two years, and at about one year and 10 months, I found she had Invasive Ductile Carcinoma. I just noticed a change in density, and asked her to get her mamo earlier.
Now as for the issue of breast implants. No! Massage can not increase breast size, but it can help deduce the overall size in theory. If you are moving fluids and stimulating draining, then the size would have to go down just a fraction.

May 30, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

I agree to what Bill said, Sumaya, and if your question was about my training- the training is intended to all massage therapist who wish to learn how to work with clients who are going through treatment for Breast Cancer.

May 31, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Dear Friends-
Hello Colorado friends- I will be teaching a class in October specifically for working with breast cancer patients- Here is the info:

Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer
October 22,23,24
In Boulder, CO.

23 CE Hours (NCBTMB, AMTA,ABMP)

This workshop will cover:
Pathology of Breast cancer
Modes of conventional & complementary treatments
Hands on techniques, safety rules and contraindications
Emotional aspects of dealing with breast cancer
Guided visualizations and meditation
Meet panel of Breast Cancer survivors- open discussion.
Student clinic hands on practice with survivors
Provide the most holistic support for your client from initial diagnosis through treatment, honoring the physical, emotional and energetic body.

This course is open to graduates of an approved 500-hr massage or healing art school, or students who completed 500 hrs of training at the time of the workshop

For more info please click here: http://bodyworkwisdom.com/id22.html

Aug 27, 2010
Darcy Neibaur

I just had breast surgery Aug 4, 2010. Am doing good recovery has gone well. Incision is healed. They took out a lemon size piece of tissue all was benign. My question is: the tissue around the incision is as hard as a golf ball. Is there some way to break up this scar tissue and it be soft again? It is still tender to touch.

Sep 1, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Darcy- glad you are healing and it was a benign tumor!
I would gently massage the area as long as its tender, but when you feel ready you can start working a bit deeper with friction and xfiber to break the scar tissue. It does get softer with time.

Sep 1, 2010
Darcy Neibaur

Thank you Eeris for the information.

Sep 2, 2010
Daniel Cohen

I am so glad this group is here for discussion. My Mother's battles with cancer have been an influence on my massage studies and belief in what I can do. Studying methods of prevention and recovery for breast health is very important to me. During the time I have been studying, this topic has gone from "Can't touch this" to more states establishing rules for Breast Massage or not prohibiting it.

In my practice I use MFR stretches and pulls, lymphatic massage, Swedish, Color Therapy, and Medical Qi Gong depending on the condition. Breast Massage relieves pain and discomfort for more than cancer,. It benefits for augmentation, reductions, fibrosis, cysts, monthly tenderness and more.

I often recommend that women find an MT they are comfortable with and make breast exam and massage part of their sessions once a month. Who knows palpation and body structure better than an MT?

Sep 2, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Right on Daniel! glad you joined us, thank you for your input.

Sep 6, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Last couple of days for early bird sign up to Massage Supports Healing from Breast Cancer. click for more information:
http://bodyworkwisdom.com/id22.html

Sep 22, 2010
Eeris Kallil CMT

Hello- I am in the writing mood- check out my blog: Massage and breast cancer part 1

Oct 21, 2010
Dave Caskey LMT

Hi I just joined the website and I have a client who has had breast cancer, thought it was cured, and now it has spread. I'm very afraid for her; she is a wonderful person.

Jan 17, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

Hello Dave and welcome to this site. I am sorry to hear about your client- my thoughts are with her. Let us know what kind of support you need.

Take care

Eeris

Jan 23, 2011
Tina Holt

This is a great article about breast massage:

www.massage-education.com/breast-massage.html

Mar 4, 2011
Nurit Nardi

Usually the tissue on the radiation site gets very inflamed. I would not massage the area, but maybe you can offer foot massage which is both sooting and therapeutic (working points on the feet etc), or do a form of body work which does not involve friciton.

Nurit

Mar 14, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

JOIN ME AT THE 2011 WORLD MASSAGE FESTIVAL

July 14-17

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC

I will be teaching two introductory classes:

Class 1

INTRO TO MASSAGE THERAPY SUPPORTS

HEALING FROM BREAST CANCER

3 CE Contact Hours

Friday July 15^th 8am-11am

Class 2

INTRO TO CORE ALIGNMENT TECHNIQUE

3 CE Contact Hours

Friday July 15^th 2pm-5pm

May 10, 2011
Tenee J

I am working with my first lumpectomy client. She recovered from chemo and finished radiation. She has MAJOR adhesions where the lumps were removed. How does one approach this sensitive area to help loosen them up to give her more mobility? I know about scar release but this is much more intricate, yet massive at the same time. Knowing it will take time..how can I help her as well as send her home with homework? Thanks.

Jul 20, 2011
Bill Curry

Hi Tenee - As for working the scar, I recommend cross fiber manipulation with a little palpitatory technique thrown in. It gets tricky if the area is highly sensitive. Usually scar tissue has very little feeling to it. This technique is done with no lubricant at first. Then there are several oils that can be topically applied (about 9) of which I forget at the moment which ones they are. I know Rosemary was one of them. Moving on, I would recommend "Aquaphor" which is a type of Vaseline that is dermatologist recommended. have client apply to the site twice a day for about 6 months. That should make a huge difference. If she has had radiation, be aware that you will probably find other lumps in the breast tissue. They are scar tissue, but if she becomes concerned tell her to check with her doctor. Do not get upset or she will see your concern and think there is more too it. If there are other lumps present the radiologist or regular doctor will be monitoring her. Let her know if you feel something and then just tell her to make sure to tell the doctor so that he/she is aware. At the same time putting her at ease. NOBODY PANIC! If she had Chemo there will be tenderness somewhere I am sure, be gentle.

Well, that is my thoughts on the subject. Hope everything works out for you. It is a learning experience.

Jul 20, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

CE training: Massage and Breast Cancer coming up in Boulder CO and Chicago area, See discussion above! or contact me for info

Oct 1, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

Oncology massage class, coming to the Chicago area in January.

What EVERY massage therapist NEEDS to know about massage for clients living with breast cancer.

Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer

Times and Dates:

Fri & Sat, Jan 20th and 21st, 2012: 9am-6pm

Sun, Jan 22nd,2012: 9am-5pm

Location:

School of Holistic Massage and Reflexology

515 Ogden Ave. Suite 300

Downers Grove, IL 60515

(630) 968-7827

www.sohmar.com

For more information and registration go to:

www.bodyworkwisdom.com ( Click on trainings and workshops)

Or call 303-775-8005

Dec 6, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer

23 Ce hours at the school of holistic massage and reflexology in the Downers Grove area 25 min from Chicago- There are a few spaces spots left!

One does not have to be an Oncology Massage Therapist to be interested in this class.

Jan 20-22 2012

This course is beneficial for EVERY massage therapist who is seeing clients! Chances are that every MT will meet a breast cancer patient/survivor at some point in their practice.

Please check my website for more info www.bodyowrkwisdom.com
Feel free to contact me with questions at this site as well!
Eeris Kallil

Dec 27, 2011
Eeris Kallil CMT

NOT TOO LATE TO SIGN UP! ONLY A FEW SOPTS LEFT!

One does not have to be an Oncology Massage Therapist to be interested in this class!

Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer

23 Ce hours at the school of holistic massage and reflexology in the Downers Grove area 25 min from Chicago- There are a few spaces spots left!

Jan 20-22 2012

This course is beneficial for EVERY massage therapist who is seeing clients! Chances are that every MT will meet a breast cancer patient/survivor at some point in their practice.

Please check my website for more info www.bodyowrkwisdom.com
Feel free to contact me with questions at this site as well!
Eeris Kallil

Jan 7, 2012
Teresea Carson

I would like to take a breast massage course. Does anyone know of a good one? I live in the Portland, OR area. Thank you.

Jan 15, 2012
Eeris Kallil CMT

Teresa, I would love to come and teach in Oregon, would you be interested in arranging a class in your area? Eeris

Jan 19, 2012
Teresea Carson

Eeris, that sounds interesting. Please contact me privately at tcarsonLmp@yahoo.com. Thanks

Jan 19, 2012
Eeris Kallil CMT

2012 Continuing Education training information For massage professionals MASSAGE THERAPY AND BREAST CANCER (MTBC) ...

(previously MTSHFBC- Massage Therapy Supports Healing from Breast Cancer )

CE hours: 24

Chicago, IL: September 28th-30th, 2012

Boulder, CO: October 26th-28th, 2012

(click links for registration info.)

Every three minutes a woman is diagnosed with Breast Cancer. You don't have to be an Oncology Massage Therapist to be interested in this class! This course is beneficial for EVERY massage therapist who is seeing clients!

As a massage therapist you can make a difference in your client’s journey back to health. Learn about the disease, the traditional and alternative modes of treatment, and how to provide the most holistic support for your client from initial diagnosis through treatment, honoring the physical, emotional, and energetic body.

For more information and registration: www.bodyworkwisdom.com (Click on workshops-information and registration)

Jul 4, 2012
Eeris Kallil CMT

Are you seeing breast cancer survivors in your clinic and not sure what is indicated or contraindicated?

check out this class:

MASSAGE THERAPY
and BREAST CANCER (MTaBC)

Boulder: June 5,6,7 2015
Chicago: July 17,18,19 2015
Continuing Education hours: 24

Tuition:
$450. 00 Early bird
$480.00 Full Tuition
Information and registration

World Massage Festival:
Michigan City, Indiana: July 14th 2015
3 CE-hours intro course
Information and registration: World Massage Festival

Contact me here or for check my website www.bodyworkwisdom.com

Jan 28, 2015