Oncological Massage

THREE MOST COMMON TYPES:

Swedish:

Most widely recommended for most forms of cancer to promote relaxation and tension relief.

Lymphatic Drainage (MLD):

Highly encouraged for breast, head/neck or any areas of edema once DVT and other risk factors have been “ruled out” by the physician.

Offered at MD Anderson, Sloan Kettering, Piedmont and Emory (performed by Physical Therapists in association with the Casley-Smith Method- 135 CEU’s) and Turning Point Women’s Center.

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT):

Recommended for pain reduction in specific areas after treatment in smaller increments. Patients need to be informed about the potential for temporary increase in pain and bruising due to more intense nature of the modality.

Offered at MD Anderson, Sloan Kettering and Massage Envy. Piedmont and Emory refer to therapists that are off-site.

• Increments vary from 5 minutes – 1 ½ hours depending on current treatment plan
• Chair services are generally complimentary and full-body/site specific are a fee-for- service.
• Sessions incorporate a combination of different techniques depending on doctor’s protocol.

Resources:

MD Anderson, SIO, Sloan Kettering, Piedmont Wellness Center, Turning Point and Massage Envy (Cumming).  Please note that Massage Envy refers cancer patients to the Turning Point Women’s Center for Breast Cancer.