Massage and metastatic cancer

What is metastatic cancer?

When cancer spreads from the original tumour to another part of the body it is called metastatic cancer.  This cancer is named after the original cancer.  For example, breast cancer that has spread to the brain is called metastatic breast cancer, not brain cancer.

Is it safe to provide massage to someone with metastatic cancer?

If the massage therapist knows what to ask and how to adapt massage to ensure it is safe, the answer is “Yes”. 

The first massage after a diagnosis of metastasis

That first appointment after a client reveals that their cancer has spread may focus on helping them manage the stress that comes with receiving this news.  A calm presence as well as kind hands with restorative intent can go a long way in supporting someone whose cancer experience has just taken an unexpected turn.

A few questions to ask…

It is helpful to know where in the body the cancer has spread. 

Many cancers have common trajectories of metastasis, including the bones, liver, lungs and brain.

Adaptations to massage are made in response to where the cancer has spread.

Some examples…

Bone metastasis can cause bone fragility.  VERY careful use of pressure is essential to ensure that the massage we provide does not cause harm.

Elena’s cancer spread to her spine, causing fractures in several vertebrae.  The soft tissue around the broken bones was dense and close to spasm.  Her pain was barely managed by medication.  Although the muscles felt hard and rigid under my hands, they responded to a gentle, focused massage. Elena’s pain was significantly reduced, improving her comfort and quality of life.

Metastasis to the lungs can contribute to difficulty breathing. 

Henry wasn’t sure he could last for a full hour massage.  We shortened it to 45 minutes, positioned him in a semi-reclining position and addressed the muscles of respiration.  For the first time in days, Henry was able to take a full and relaxed breath.

Cancer that spread to the brain can impact any function in the area of the tumour, from altered vision to reduced cognitive capacities to seizures. 

During intake I asked Fatima what would make her the most comfortable during the massage.  She said because she is dizzy, she can’t lie flat on the table.  And, she has trouble finding the right word to say what she wants to say. I allowed plenty of time to ensure our we were both clear on what was needed and suggested that she lie in a semi-reclining position for the massage.

Liver metastasis can cause fatigue, discomfort, nausea, jaundice, abdominal swelling, persistent itchy skin and pain in the right shoulder.

Pedro really missed his regular massages while he was in the hospital.  He told me he has a swollen belly and feels nauseous.  He was able to really enjoy the massage by lying on his side with his upper body elevated.  A slow and steady hand helped him to deeply relax and feel more like himself.

“Yes” it is safe to provide massage to someone with metastatic cancer, providing we are comfortable asking the right questions to get the information we need to safely adapt massage.

And, if we don’t yet have the knowledge or skill set to confidently work with this person, we can always refer them to a colleague who is ready for the nuances and challenges of working with a client with metastatic cancer.

Oncology massage training is a great place to learn the foundations of safe and effective massage for people impacted by cancer.