Oncology Massage

In January 2013, I continued my education to work with clients either during or after cancer treatment.  The class itself was mainly how to make certain the "client" is safe and what not to do, to prevent lymphedema expecially.  I was quite honored to work with a current female client of mine who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.  She was very open with me and willing to show me her double mastectomy and results so far of her reconstructive surgery.  In prior conversation with her, we discussed that she would not be able to have deep tissue massages if lymph nodes were affected by cancer.  She had 13 nodes removed and during a short session with her, I used very light strokes to the left thoracic area, anterior and posterior, plus her left arm.  She also has a port placed in her upper anterior chest wall to help when receiving her chemo injections.  Her pectorals were very tight and restricted but due to both the lymphatic system and the port itself, deep tissue here was not an option.  I will continue to work with her throughout her treatment and as she is able.  She hopes to be finished with her treatments at the end of this summer. She will need to take advance measures to prevent lymphedema for the rest of her life.