Massage

Moosie

hi. I’m 8 weeks post L mastectomy where I had 22 lymph nodes removed. Prior to that I had 8 rounds of chemo. Next week I start radiation.  Tomorrow I’m booked in for a massage and it’s just been suggested massage might not be a good idea. Does anyone else have some advice for me regarding any adverse effects of massage? Help

SoldierCrab

HI @Moosie
 What type of massage have you booked ?
a remedial one ?
is the therapist trained in oncology massaging? 
you need a soft massage with no massaging into the area where lymph nodes have been removed 

INFORM the therapist prior to starting and enjoy a gentle relaxing massage. 

iserbrown

@Moosie - you haven't mentioned what type of massage so I can only assume it is medical related massage and that perhaps you have a fluid build up?  Sorry, if I am on the wrong tram!

Look for a massage therapist who specialises in breast care, I saw a Remedial massage therapist recommended by my Physio - it may help if you have fluid build up that is slow to move along and just to get a little movement.

There is a fact sheet, link below from BCNA website - hope that helps

https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/resources/accessible-resources/lymphoedema/

Moosie

Thanks. It is just at a day spa with a friend. I was just going for a relaxation type massage nothing specific. Now I’m worried. 

Giovanna_BCNA

Hello @Moosie,

Great to hear that you are having a relaxation massage.  I have attached the following link with information from Cancer Council New South Wales regarding massage.  It is ok to have a light massage as long as it is not near any cancer specific site.  The following link provides more information which will help you put your mind at ease.

https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/17958/b1000/massage-and-cancer-42/massage-and-cancer-benefits-of-touch/

June1952

Hi @Moosie
Some ''spas'' require a medical certificate prior to any massages if one has had BC.  Be aware of that and perhaps be ready to exchange the massage with a pedicure, facial or manicure.  I recently booked but it was hard to hide a mastectomy !!!!!.
Summer  

Mrs_H

Prior to surgery I had regular massage and physio on my back whilst undergoing chemo. I checked with oncologist prior and she had no issues with it at all. I didn’t even get a warning for any areas to avoid etc. I did pre-warn the therapist just in case it made them uncomfortable. Enjoy the relaxation at the spa.

Afraser

I started massage for lymphoedema while still on chemo. Admittedly a specialist therapist. Given a number of lymph nodes list, I would simply be careful about not directing anything towards the affected side.

Moosie

Thank you!  I had my massage and it was wonderful. I now feel completely relaxed and ready to start my radiation journey tomorrow. Without the support of everyone here it wouldn’t have happened.