I have actually been told by massage therapists that they will not massage me because I have cancer and they are afraid of spreading it!!!!!! This can't possibly be true can it????
I have actually been told by massage therapists that they will not massage me because I have cancer and they are afraid of spreading it!!!!!! This can't possibly be true can it????
Hi Dragonfly,
I'm a licensed massage therapist and lots of massage therapist are afraid to massage cancer patients. We move blood and lymph fluids which some believe can spread the disease. There are massage therapist certified in oncology massage and maybe you could find one. If you can't find one locally ask a therapist if a scrip from your oncologist would suffice. I massage cancer patients regularly. As a cancer patient myself I asked my oncologist about massage and he encouraged it and I've had lymphoma which most are afraid to massage for because of moving of lymph fluids. Keep looking because massage will help relax you and when we are going through treatment or in after care, we need the bodyworks.
Blessings to you,
Joy
I had heard that massage could help spread cancer cells, too but a friend of mine who is now being treated for ovarian cancer has regular massages and is encouraged to do so by her physicians and support group. I agree that you must keep searching for the therapist who you like the best. I use massage on a weekly basis, some times more and find it extremely beneficial. Keep asking everyone you know for recommendations. Maybe your oncologist or nurses in his/her office know of someone who will massage you. It's a wonderful healing modality so be persistent in finding the right therapist for you.
Add to the discussion