Oncology Massage

Oncology massage is for anyone with a cancer experience, from the time of diagnosis and treatment through post-treatment (days or even decades later), and beyond. It is safe and appropriate when performed by a therapist with specialized advanced training in massage and cancer. Oncology massage therapists are trained to meet clients wherever they are in their cancer experience and to incorporate a highly individualized massage session to bring comfort and support to them.

Oncology massage is designed to help ease the symptoms and side effects caused by cancer, chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Clients find it helps to improve their sense of well-being and their quality of life.

Oncology massage uses the long, slow, flowing strokes of Swedish massage with compassionate touch It incorporates appropriate adjustments to pressure and positioning based on the individual’s health history and current physical health to create a safe and effective massage session. Prior to the massage, the client’s health history is reviewed and a customized, safe massage is designed together to meet the client’s individual needs and goals.

Research and clinical experience show that oncology massage helps:

  • Ease nausea

  • Reduce pain, tension and discomfort

  • Ease anxiety and depression

  • Increase energy

  • Ease peripheral neuropathy

  • Improve sleep

  • Stimulate the immune system

  • Allow the individual to have a positive body experience

  • Reduce isolation

  • Create a “vacation from cancer”

  • Support and allow the client to participate in their overall well-being

Watch me discuss oncology massage with WCVB Channel 5 in Boston.

  • In 2022, I was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma and went through 49 rounds of chemotherapy and a major surgery to remove the tumor from my leg. Throughout the 9 months journey, I greatly benefited from massage while receiving chemo and in between infusion sessions when I benefited from Julie’s healing hands. Massage not only helped me with a much-needed relaxation during my tough journey but also with circulation and moving of the fluid in my legs. Regular massage brought more flexibility to my joints and muscles that were stiffening from long hours of chemotherapy and immobility post operation. I contribute my healing to Julie’s massage sessions and other complimentary therapies that I received during treatment.

    ~MO, Cambridge MA