Massage and cancer
Hi all
I have also posted this message on the Embody therapist forum site so apology for copy/pasting but am quite incensed atm.
Would appreciate feedback.
I have been qualified in aromatherapy and some other modalities for a number of years.
I have opened my own holistic health centre where I rent out rooms for other therapists.
I have two women who rent out rooms who have did Swedish and IHM. This year one is doing aromatherapy and one is doing reflexology at college.
The girl doing aromatherapy has been told by a tutor not to massage ANYONE who has EVER had cancer (certainly not within a 15 year period) and DEFINITELY NEVER, EVER anyone who has had breast cancer due to "possible lymphatic spread, as this is one cancer where this MAY happen"
Well, as I am a nurse of 20+ years I have a very firm grounding in physiology. Both my son and I have had cancer and I have also treated people who have had cancer in the past. Any cancer, in any organ is subject to spread and lymphatic spread.
I have also completed courses which are Embody approved (SEED institute) regarding treating people who have had cancer.
Anyway, the crux of this message is....I am about to contact the college concerned, which teaches VTCT courses, with my concerns regarding what these women are being told. Also, bear in mind that these women are paying full price through the college for their courses and are becoming confused re: what they are being told and courses they are seeing as being available as post graduate.
Whilst I am more than aware that core courses will not advocate treating people who have or have had cancer I am mightily concerned that at least one tutor is telling these students not to touch anyone who has EVER had cancer ever at all.
I am very, very concerned about this and would appreciate any information anyone may have.
I also appreciate that some therapists have little knowledge regards cancer and may not have the confidence to treat people who have experienced a cancer diagnosis but feel this college are putting incredible fear and confusion into their students with what I feel is spurious information.
Regards
Answers:
Hi Patchouli
I can understand completely why you are so incensed at the moment.
From my part, during my ITEC Holistic Massage training we were told categorically that under ITEC examination rules (or whatever ... who knows with ITEC?!) that cancer was a contraindication. Full stop. In other words, keep clear until we have much more experience of treating "well" clients under our belts. Never any real explanation other than the tutor saying that there are therapists who specialiase in the treatment of cancer patients; it was left up to us - once we finished our course - to find out. But we were not told to not treat a client who had EVER had cancer.
But I agree, it's a completely muddy field and it would be so helpful if we had some clear guidelines in place for therapists - new and experienced alike - to refer to if we feel a bit "shaky" on aspects of practice. I look to experienced therapists, medical practitioners and CANCERactive for latest news and views (http://www.iconmag.co.uk/page.php?n=145) but still remain very wary as I'm so darned unsure of what is right, what is wrong.
I would be very interested to hear what the college has to say after you write to them. Do please let us know. I think a lot of colleges are churning out new therapists who are confused and concerned, very fearful of mis-treating a client because they have "heard from someone that ..." which, ultimately, leads them to lose their skills because they are too scared to practice. Such a shame - all for the sake of colleges cashing in on the rise in interest in complementary therapies.
With bright blessings
Moonpoppy x
[sm=sandrine.gif]
Answers:
Hi Patchouli,
I was also taught (years ago) that cancer was a contra-indication. But times do change! There's an interesting article here http://www.tracywalton.com/id6.html and that page also has a link to a detailed study of metastasis on AMTAs own website. One of the key points seems to be that blood/lymph flow is far more likely to be accelerated through exercise than massage.
It does smack of litigation avoidance on the college tutor's part.
derekw
Answers:
Hi Patchouli - I have PM'ed you!!! :eek:
Answers:
Hi Pachouli
Active cancer is generally a contra indication because of the possibility of it being spread though the lymphatic system, I must admit that this seemed to be working against the natural system of the body, but could never get a straight answer out of anyone?
But once a person is given the all clear or the consultant agrees that massage is not a problem, then it is no longer a contra indication and can be used.
This is one of them grey areas, but to class anyone who has had cancer in the lase 15 years as contra indicated to physical therapy is ridiculous in the extreme and shows a total misunderstanding by the teacher.
Answers:
What a pity that the tutor has such a wrong/negative attitude towards people who have been affected by cancer. She should be aware of research that is around which supports the case that cancer patients can receive massage. in 1994 when I did my ITEC massage diploma I did a project about massage and cancer. A booklet called, "Massage for people with cancer" by Patricia McNamara was very imformative and useful. As a result of my project and the help that a local cancer charity gave me, for the last 5/6 years I have been part of their home visiting service providing massage for clients with cancer in there homes. Before seeing these clients written confrimation of their doctors consent is obtained. I do this work as a volunteer and find it very rewarding. The clients are at various stages of their cancer journer. I feel that the massage it gives the clients a chance to get a loving touch and to allow them to get back in touch with their bodies.
I do hope you get a satisfactory response.
Answers:
we have been taught via ITEC the same as above , contra-inidcation. We were not told anyhting about not treating if they have previously had cancer, but we where told it would be a doctor authority requirement.
However, we where also told that if a client is diagnosed as having a terminal cancer then the last thing they need to hear is someone saying they cant have an hour of relaxation to escape.
we where told to obtain medical authority, but sending someone who has termianal cancer back to a doctor (if they havent already received authority) may defeat the purpose of them seeking a massage. they may be trying to escape from having spent all the time with doctors throughout their treatment.
i understand the legal implications may be a concern.
Answers:
Thank you all so much with your replies.
It is a great shame that there is so much confusion about what is a horrible disease.
I so want to give you a hug Essence as I too feel that this is a time when people need touch and affirmation that they are still sleeping and breathing human beings, not be treated like lepers.
p.s. Thanks Jabba, why does it not surprise me what you said in your pm.
Regards
Joyce
Answers:
Hi,
Its probably a good idea for anyone considering massaging people who have cancer to go on a specialist training course, as there is a lot of good information out there to help you feel more confident about massaging people with this condition, and believe me they really need to have something like massage at this stressful time in their life -
get the training - cover yourself by seeking medical approval - if that is possible - and help someone who would really benefit from the caring touch of a sensitive therapist.
Luv Binah
x
Answers:
There is one simple answer to this if you are currently receiving or have just received treatment for cancer 'Ask your Consultant'. I wouldn't accept anything less. As a therapist or patient when it comes toadvice ask the expertsin Oncology rather than rely on some quack therapy tutor.
How darethey make a generalisation like this it stinks of victimisation & is unprofessional & un-ethical.
Answers:
I think, with many tutors it is a case of that their hands are tied by the examining board prospectus of which they are teaching.
I certainly cannot think of a time when accepting and therapeutic touch is more needed than when someonehas been aggressively treated for cancer.
Many (if not all) hospices have busy complimentary therapy teams - mostly volunteers- who give massage, reflexology, shiatsu, acupuncture etc to people with cancer (and their carers).
Research has become extensive on this subject, and my local hospice offers one day courses to qualified massage therapists interested in learning more about offering massage to people with cancer.
I have been volunteering at my local hospice, and the referral route is usually through the patient's Macmillan Nurse, not the Consultant or GP.
I wholeheartedly agree with Essence in what she says and would definately recommend the book that she mentioned - Massage for People with Cancer by Patricai Macnamara for anyone who is interested in learning more about this subject.
Blessings.
Answers:
I must we were told at college never to do aromatherapy on cancer clients....... i have a client in soon for a therapeutic massage with a doctor letter but unsure which oil to use.
Answers:
Hi Katherin
I'm not an aromatherapist - but I know the aromatherapist that worked for the local cancer charity & who massaged in the hospital had all their oils checked by the hospital first!!! Yikes.
In the line of work I do I don't particularly like my clients having aromatherapy massages as the oils are "non-self" and are absorbed into the lymphatic system.
Maybe look at just using your carrier oil - we only ever used grapeseed in the hospital as it was seen as pretty neutral
HTH
FBx
Answers:
Thanks funny bunny.....thats what i would use but just wanted to check first, bit worrying as never worked on a cancer client b4.
Answers:
Hi
Bit of a grey area, but have a look on:
Answers:
very interesting .....thankyou
Answers:
Just to add to this discussion, I am almost at the end of a VTCT swedish massage course and we were taught ongoing cnacer is a contra, but fortunatleyb our tutor has worked in papliative care and has a goodattitude to all this. Another class member has brought in a "cold client" whoa has recently been treated for cancer and as long as she had her consultant's consent the tutor and the college were happy for us to massage her. She was made aware of the misgivings some people have but was happy to go ahead with the treatment and is coming back again soon.
This huge variation in what's right or not makes it very hard for us as students to really now what is and what isn't a contra indication.
I have also posted this message on the Embody therapist forum site so apology for copy/pasting but am quite incensed atm.
Would appreciate feedback.
I have been qualified in aromatherapy and some other modalities for a number of years.
I have opened my own holistic health centre where I rent out rooms for other therapists.
I have two women who rent out rooms who have did Swedish and IHM. This year one is doing aromatherapy and one is doing reflexology at college.
The girl doing aromatherapy has been told by a tutor not to massage ANYONE who has EVER had cancer (certainly not within a 15 year period) and DEFINITELY NEVER, EVER anyone who has had breast cancer due to "possible lymphatic spread, as this is one cancer where this MAY happen"
Well, as I am a nurse of 20+ years I have a very firm grounding in physiology. Both my son and I have had cancer and I have also treated people who have had cancer in the past. Any cancer, in any organ is subject to spread and lymphatic spread.
I have also completed courses which are Embody approved (SEED institute) regarding treating people who have had cancer.
Anyway, the crux of this message is....I am about to contact the college concerned, which teaches VTCT courses, with my concerns regarding what these women are being told. Also, bear in mind that these women are paying full price through the college for their courses and are becoming confused re: what they are being told and courses they are seeing as being available as post graduate.
Whilst I am more than aware that core courses will not advocate treating people who have or have had cancer I am mightily concerned that at least one tutor is telling these students not to touch anyone who has EVER had cancer ever at all.
I am very, very concerned about this and would appreciate any information anyone may have.
I also appreciate that some therapists have little knowledge regards cancer and may not have the confidence to treat people who have experienced a cancer diagnosis but feel this college are putting incredible fear and confusion into their students with what I feel is spurious information.
Regards
Answers:
Hi Patchouli
I can understand completely why you are so incensed at the moment.
From my part, during my ITEC Holistic Massage training we were told categorically that under ITEC examination rules (or whatever ... who knows with ITEC?!) that cancer was a contraindication. Full stop. In other words, keep clear until we have much more experience of treating "well" clients under our belts. Never any real explanation other than the tutor saying that there are therapists who specialiase in the treatment of cancer patients; it was left up to us - once we finished our course - to find out. But we were not told to not treat a client who had EVER had cancer.
But I agree, it's a completely muddy field and it would be so helpful if we had some clear guidelines in place for therapists - new and experienced alike - to refer to if we feel a bit "shaky" on aspects of practice. I look to experienced therapists, medical practitioners and CANCERactive for latest news and views (http://www.iconmag.co.uk/page.php?n=145) but still remain very wary as I'm so darned unsure of what is right, what is wrong.
I would be very interested to hear what the college has to say after you write to them. Do please let us know. I think a lot of colleges are churning out new therapists who are confused and concerned, very fearful of mis-treating a client because they have "heard from someone that ..." which, ultimately, leads them to lose their skills because they are too scared to practice. Such a shame - all for the sake of colleges cashing in on the rise in interest in complementary therapies.
With bright blessings
Moonpoppy x
[sm=sandrine.gif]
Answers:
Hi Patchouli,
I was also taught (years ago) that cancer was a contra-indication. But times do change! There's an interesting article here http://www.tracywalton.com/id6.html and that page also has a link to a detailed study of metastasis on AMTAs own website. One of the key points seems to be that blood/lymph flow is far more likely to be accelerated through exercise than massage.
It does smack of litigation avoidance on the college tutor's part.
derekw
Answers:
Hi Patchouli - I have PM'ed you!!! :eek:
Answers:
Hi Pachouli
Active cancer is generally a contra indication because of the possibility of it being spread though the lymphatic system, I must admit that this seemed to be working against the natural system of the body, but could never get a straight answer out of anyone?
But once a person is given the all clear or the consultant agrees that massage is not a problem, then it is no longer a contra indication and can be used.
This is one of them grey areas, but to class anyone who has had cancer in the lase 15 years as contra indicated to physical therapy is ridiculous in the extreme and shows a total misunderstanding by the teacher.
Answers:
What a pity that the tutor has such a wrong/negative attitude towards people who have been affected by cancer. She should be aware of research that is around which supports the case that cancer patients can receive massage. in 1994 when I did my ITEC massage diploma I did a project about massage and cancer. A booklet called, "Massage for people with cancer" by Patricia McNamara was very imformative and useful. As a result of my project and the help that a local cancer charity gave me, for the last 5/6 years I have been part of their home visiting service providing massage for clients with cancer in there homes. Before seeing these clients written confrimation of their doctors consent is obtained. I do this work as a volunteer and find it very rewarding. The clients are at various stages of their cancer journer. I feel that the massage it gives the clients a chance to get a loving touch and to allow them to get back in touch with their bodies.
I do hope you get a satisfactory response.
Answers:
we have been taught via ITEC the same as above , contra-inidcation. We were not told anyhting about not treating if they have previously had cancer, but we where told it would be a doctor authority requirement.
However, we where also told that if a client is diagnosed as having a terminal cancer then the last thing they need to hear is someone saying they cant have an hour of relaxation to escape.
we where told to obtain medical authority, but sending someone who has termianal cancer back to a doctor (if they havent already received authority) may defeat the purpose of them seeking a massage. they may be trying to escape from having spent all the time with doctors throughout their treatment.
i understand the legal implications may be a concern.
Answers:
Thank you all so much with your replies.
It is a great shame that there is so much confusion about what is a horrible disease.
I so want to give you a hug Essence as I too feel that this is a time when people need touch and affirmation that they are still sleeping and breathing human beings, not be treated like lepers.
p.s. Thanks Jabba, why does it not surprise me what you said in your pm.
Regards
Joyce
Answers:
Hi,
Its probably a good idea for anyone considering massaging people who have cancer to go on a specialist training course, as there is a lot of good information out there to help you feel more confident about massaging people with this condition, and believe me they really need to have something like massage at this stressful time in their life -
get the training - cover yourself by seeking medical approval - if that is possible - and help someone who would really benefit from the caring touch of a sensitive therapist.
Luv Binah
x
Answers:
There is one simple answer to this if you are currently receiving or have just received treatment for cancer 'Ask your Consultant'. I wouldn't accept anything less. As a therapist or patient when it comes toadvice ask the expertsin Oncology rather than rely on some quack therapy tutor.
How darethey make a generalisation like this it stinks of victimisation & is unprofessional & un-ethical.
Answers:
I think, with many tutors it is a case of that their hands are tied by the examining board prospectus of which they are teaching.
I certainly cannot think of a time when accepting and therapeutic touch is more needed than when someonehas been aggressively treated for cancer.
Many (if not all) hospices have busy complimentary therapy teams - mostly volunteers- who give massage, reflexology, shiatsu, acupuncture etc to people with cancer (and their carers).
Research has become extensive on this subject, and my local hospice offers one day courses to qualified massage therapists interested in learning more about offering massage to people with cancer.
I have been volunteering at my local hospice, and the referral route is usually through the patient's Macmillan Nurse, not the Consultant or GP.
I wholeheartedly agree with Essence in what she says and would definately recommend the book that she mentioned - Massage for People with Cancer by Patricai Macnamara for anyone who is interested in learning more about this subject.
Blessings.
Answers:
I must we were told at college never to do aromatherapy on cancer clients....... i have a client in soon for a therapeutic massage with a doctor letter but unsure which oil to use.
Answers:
Hi Katherin
I'm not an aromatherapist - but I know the aromatherapist that worked for the local cancer charity & who massaged in the hospital had all their oils checked by the hospital first!!! Yikes.
In the line of work I do I don't particularly like my clients having aromatherapy massages as the oils are "non-self" and are absorbed into the lymphatic system.
Maybe look at just using your carrier oil - we only ever used grapeseed in the hospital as it was seen as pretty neutral
HTH
FBx
Answers:
Thanks funny bunny.....thats what i would use but just wanted to check first, bit worrying as never worked on a cancer client b4.
Answers:
Hi
Bit of a grey area, but have a look on:
Answers:
very interesting .....thankyou
Answers:
Just to add to this discussion, I am almost at the end of a VTCT swedish massage course and we were taught ongoing cnacer is a contra, but fortunatleyb our tutor has worked in papliative care and has a goodattitude to all this. Another class member has brought in a "cold client" whoa has recently been treated for cancer and as long as she had her consultant's consent the tutor and the college were happy for us to massage her. She was made aware of the misgivings some people have but was happy to go ahead with the treatment and is coming back again soon.
This huge variation in what's right or not makes it very hard for us as students to really now what is and what isn't a contra indication.