Is massage therapy safe for someone diagnosed with a chronic and/or terminal illness?

Gentle and appropriately adjusted massage is safe for clients who have been diagnosed with a chronic or end stage terminal illness. In fact, massage therapy can support a person throughout all stages of their respective illness.

If you or your loved one have been diagnosed with cancer, Andrew will establish a treatment plan according to the diagnosis, presenting symptoms, conventional medical treatments, medications and desired treatment outcomes.

Will massage spread cancer cells?

A massage will not spread cancer cells as metastasis is a biological process involving enzynes, growth factors, genetics, and a myriad of other biochemical processes. Pressure is never applied directly over or on a tumour site, and the massage will always be adjusted to promote a state of relaxation for the person.

Why is touch important?

Touch provides comfort and establishes a connection between individuals. This becomes even more important when other senses, such as sight, hearing and speech, are no longer available for patients.  Gentle touch conveys the message of caring and gives the receiver an opportunity to acknowledge their physicality. 

Does massage therapy complement my other health providers?

Yes, massage can be used safely with other therapies such as physiotherapy, osteopathy, art and music therapy, psychotherapy and all mainstream medicines. Massage may be chosen as a part of a treatment plan that promotes a greater sense of well being in combination with the above therapies.

Your individual treatment plan needs to be based on what your goals are and what you enjoy doing.

How will the massage be conducted?

The massage can be arranged in various settings including your home, hospital, day hospice, day centre, or aged care facility.

If you or your loved one are at home, Andrew may perform your massage whilst you are lying on your bed or sitting in a recliner or chair. Andrew will discuss positioning options with you during the assessment process.

At home, it is important to ensure that you are warm enough during the massage so that your body can relax. Consider heating the room before the massage, or having an extra blanket. Also, reduce interruptions during the session by turning off devices and not scheduling other appointments during massage time.

For the first massage, Andrew will use light pressure to ensure that there are no adverse effects following the massage. It is beneficial to note how you felt 24 hours after the massage.

Andrew will require full disclosure of all medical information, so ensure you are able to convey this information so he can tailor the treatment to meet your needs.

You should always feel safe and comfortable during the massage. Draping of towels and blankets will maintain your warmth throughout the session, and Andrew will ensure you are covered with the exception of the area being massaged. If at any time you feel uncomfortable, or need to cease the massage, communicate this to Andrew so he can take the appropriate action. Andrew is trained in palliative care massage and he is able adopt a flexible approach, ensuring that client needs are being met.

A typical visit will last 60 mins at the most. This usually involves 30-40 minutes of hands on treatment.

Is massage appropriate for my child who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness?

Yes, children of all ages benefit greatly from massage therapy and Andrew is happy for a parent or guardian to be present during the massage session. You might like to ask Andrew to demonstrate massage techniques you can offer your child that are safe and gentle, and that help to support your child during times of discomfort.

Can I claim a rebate if I have private health insurance?

Andrew is a registered private health fund provider, meaning you could claim a rebate for the massage if you have remedial massage included on your ‘extras’ cover through your private health fund.

Each health fund will have different policies, so please check if your health fund provides rebates for mobile remedial massage.

Will I need consent from my GP?

Consent from a GP or specialist is not required for you to receive massage, however, it is advisable that you contact your health team if you have any concerns before having a massage.

When is massage unsafe?

A ‘contra-indication’ for massage is a reason not to provide someone with a massage. A contra-indication is something that massage may interact with negatively, for example a fever or severe pain.

If a client presents with an ‘absolute contraindication’, under no circumstances should a massage be performed. For example:

  • Fever
  • Contagious diseases (including any cold or flu, no matter how mild it may seem)
  • Vomiting
  • A current DVT (Deep vein thrombosis)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Severe pain
  • Under the influence of drugs or alcohol

If a client presents with any of the below (known as a ‘local contra-indication’), Andrew can provide a massage, but not over any areas affected:

  • Varicose veins
  • Un-diagnosed lumps or bumps
  • Recent surgical scars
  • Medical devices
  • Pregnancy
  • Bruising
  • Cuts
  • Abrasions
  • Sunburn
  • Un-diagnosed pain
  • Inflammation, including arthritis