Oncology Massage
(Written referral/consent from consultant or nurse is required)
Gentle, compassionate massage support for people living with cancer
At Alchemy Wellbeing Centre, we understand that a cancer diagnosis and its treatment can affect much more than the body. It can be an emotionally and physically demanding time, and having a safe space to rest, relax and receive nurturing touch can be an important part of looking after your wellbeing.
When you’re living with or beyond cancer, your body can go through so much — physically, emotionally and mentally.
Sometimes, you simply need a safe space to pause, breathe and be gently cared for. 🤍
Oncology massage is a specialised, nurturing approach to massage therapy, adapted to meet your individual needs throughout your cancer journey.
With Sarah, each treatment is gentle, supportive and completely centred around you.
There is no pressure to “feel better” or be anything other than exactly where you are on that day.
The aim is to provide comfort, relaxation and supportive care alongside your medical treatment.
How can oncology massage help?
A carefully adapted oncology massage may help you to:
🌿 Relax the mind and body and create a sense of calm
💆 Ease muscular tension and physical discomfort
❤️ Support emotional wellbeing during what can be a stressful and uncertain time
😌 Reduce feelings of stress and anxiety
🌙 Encourage rest and relaxation, which may support better sleep
✨ Improve your sense of wellbeing and self-care
🤍 Enjoy safe, nurturing touch at a time when your body may feel very different
Some research suggests massage may help people with cancer experience improvements in relaxation, mood, anxiety and fatigue, although the evidence varies and massage should be viewed as a complementary therapy rather than a cancer treatment.
A massage tailored to you
Every person and every cancer journey is different. Your treatment will therefore be individualised around your needs, comfort and current health.
Pressure is kept gentle and techniques are adapted according to your diagnosis, treatment and how you are feeling on the day. Your therapist will take time to discuss your medical history and current treatment before your massage, and you will always remain in control of your treatment.
We may work with areas such as the hands, feet, shoulders, head, neck or back, depending on what is appropriate and comfortable for you.
Your comfort comes first. Positioning is everything.
Oncology massage is very different from a deep tissue or vigorous massage. During cancer treatment, gentle massage is generally recommended, with particular care taken around areas affected by cancer, surgery, radiotherapy, wounds, bruising, lymph nodes, medical devices or other treatment-related changes.
If you have cancer that has spread to the bones, a low platelet count, are prone to bruising or bleeding, or have other treatment-related concerns, it is important to speak with your cancer doctor or specialist nurse before having a massage.
We recommend that you always tell us about your cancer diagnosis and any current or recent treatment so that your session can be adapted appropriately.
A peaceful space to simply be.
Sometimes, the greatest benefit of massage is simply having time where nothing is expected of you.
At Alchemy Wellbeing Centre, our oncology massage sessions offer a quiet opportunity to pause, breathe and reconnect with your body in a compassionate and supportive environment.
Whether you are currently receiving treatment, recovering from treatment or living beyond cancer, you are welcome to talk to us about whether oncology massage may be suitable for you.
Please contact Alchemy Wellbeing Centre if you are currently undergoing cancer treatment, so we can discuss your individual needs and ensure the treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
Oncology massage is a complementary therapy and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure cancer. It should not replace medical advice or conventional cancer treatment.
Macmillan specifically advises that people with cancer should use a therapist trained and qualified to work with people affected by cancer, and that massage may need to be modified or avoided in certain circumstances.
