I have been a certified massage therapist and esthetician
for over 20 years and not one week has gone by without being asked about cancer
patients and massage. Massage therapy is very beneficial for all but concerns
are magnified when cancer and holistic therapies are mentioned in the same
breath.
While massage is not a cure for cancer no one should go
untouched and if managed by a skilled therapist, massage will eliminate the
enormous toxin load on the body that is synonymous with cancer treatments.
Additionally, in each stage of cancer, massage can improve blood circulation,
equalize blood pressure, and help with fatigue and nausea.
Lori Anderson is our certified massage therapist with
additional certifications in massage therapy for cancer patients. She
recommends consulting first with your doctor before beginning a touch treatment
and then with your skilled therapist since the various stages of cancer will
determine the type of massage you should receive. If for example a cancer
patient is two to three months out from treatment then receiving bodywork that
includes lymph drainage therapies, trigger point therapy, neuromuscular
therapy, myotherapy and myofascial release, would be most beneficial.
For hospital or bed ridden patients, receiving a diligent
and consistant regimin of cranialsacral and polarity therapy as well as reiki
and therapeutic touch will prove to be a welcomed and releiving remedy to a
very daunting and exhaustive process. It is never advised to receive deep tissue in any stage of cancer treatments.
To many of us are dealing with the effects of cancer either
personally or through a loved one. Providing relief and healthy comfort is
simply a touch away.
If you know someone that is going through cancer please
share this blog with them. For more information or to consult with one of my
certified therapists on massage therapy specifically for cancer patients please
call Avatar Spa at 732-332-1102 or email avatarspa@yahoo.com.
Lisa Girandola is the owner of Avatar Spa in Marlboro, NJ. She is a certified massage therapist & Esthetician.
