Oncology and Lymphatic Massage offer gentle, specialised care that enhances quality of life by reducing treatment side effects like pain, fatigue, nausea, and anxiety. These therapies support the immune system, improve circulation, and manage lymphoedema (swelling) by promoting lymphatic flow, especially after surgery or radiation.
Oncology Massage
An exceptionally light, gentle, and relaxing massage. Numerous clients express their delight in receiving nurturing touch, perceiving it as a time to unwind and simply “be.”
In 2010, Claire obtained certification as an Oncology Massage Therapist. Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and Oncology Massage Training have listed her as a qualified Oncology Massage Therapist. Since then, she has provided services to clients diagnosed with cancer, undergoing treatment or with a history of cancer.
Claire is fully insured as an Oncology Massage Therapist and possesses the expertise to modify and adapt conventional massage techniques to meet the specific needs of clients with a history or diagnosis of cancer. She meticulously considers any contraindications for massage, ensuring a safe and effective treatment plan tailored to her client’s needs.
Research indicates that Oncology Massage enhances the quality of life for individuals with a history of cancer diagnosis. Studies have demonstrated a:
Additionally, other challenges such as insomnia, cognitive impairment, dry mouth, and shortness of breath have experienced an overall improvement of 48% (referenced to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre NY in 2004).
Various treatment-related side effects can be effectively alleviated, including constipation, muscle tension, peripheral neuropathy, scar tissue adhesions, and lymphoedema.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialised massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system, which maintains fluid balance, removes toxins and supports the immune system. It is particularly effective for post-surgical recovery, reducing inflammation and improving tissue heaing.
Unlike deep tissue massage, MLD uses light pressure because lymphatic capillaries are close the the skin's surface. It involes gentle, wave-like stretching movements to open and close these vessels. This rhythmic massage targets the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, encouraging lymph fluid movement throughout the body.
MLD benefits individuals with lymphoedema or those undergoing surgical procedures affecting the lymph nodes, such as breast augmentation or mastectomy. It alleviates pain and swelling, aiding healing and reducing fluid retention.
As lymph fluid circulates, it captures cellular waste, toxins and harmful substances, which are filtered by lymph nodes. MLD stimulates lymphatic flow, supporting waste elimination and enhancing detoxification.
Claire specialises in MLD for breast and oncology care, pre and post-surgery healing. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other therapies, MLD promotes health, healing and well-being.
What is an Oncology Massage Therapist
An Oncology Massage (OM) Therapist is a qualified Remedial Massage Therapist, who has completed post-graduate studies in Oncology Massage Therapy.
Oncology Massage Training covers the physical and emotional effects of cancer and the potential side effects of treatments. Therapists adapt their techniques to work safely with people living with cancer.
OM therapists know how cancer develops and spreads, how to adjust pressure, site and positioning - post surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, appliances, scar tissue, bone metastases and how to provide safe massage treatments after lymph node removal or irradiation.
The Cancer Council supports the use of gentle massage therapy by experienced Oncology Therapists.
