Oncology (Cancer)

What Is Oncology Massage?

Oncology massage is a gentle, customized and specialized therapy specifically designed for individuals living with or recovering from cancer. Whether you’re undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, recovering from surgery (including breast surgery or mastectomy), or transitioning into remission, oncology massage helps ease discomfort and restore balance—physically and emotionally.

At Gentle Waves Massage & Wellness Centre, we offer nurturing, therapeutic touch that is tailored to your condition and preferences. Every session is led by your comfort, needs, and consent. Our trained oncology massage therapist(s) provide safe, compassionate touch that supports healing, comfort, and emotional well-being throughout your cancer journey.

What Makes Oncology Massage Different?

Oncology massage is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It involves:

• Specialized training to understand cancer types, treatments, and contraindications

• Customized techniques to avoid areas affected by tumors, ports, surgical sites, or radiation burns

• Adjustments to pressure, positioning, and session length to ensure comfort and safety

• A trauma-informed, client-led approach that respects emotional vulnerability and physical limitations

• Gentle, slow, and highly individualized techniques 

• Flexibile session structure based on your energy and medical status 

Sessions are always guided by what feels safe and supportive for you—never forced, rushed, or invasive. It's designed to help the body rest, recover, and feel safe again. 

Who Is Oncology Massage For?

This service is designed for anyone living with or recovering from cancer, including:

• Clients currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation

• Breast Cancer survivors (post-surgery, reconstruction, or mastectomy) 

• Survivors in remission or long-term recovery, seeking ody reconnection  and emotional healing

• Individuals coping with post-surgical pain, scarring, chest tightness, or emotional trauma 

• Clients with lymphedema or swelling in the arms/chest, or cording 

• Patients in palliative or hospice care

• Family caregivers needing restorative touch (by request)

Massage can be a safe, healing space at any stage of the cancer journey.

We also welcome caregivers and loved ones who need a moment to recharge.

Breast Massage After Surgery or Radiation

As part of our oncology massage offering, we also provide breast massage when clinically appropriate and only with your informed consent. This may include massage of:

• The chest wall and surrounding fascia

• Scar tissue from mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction

• Radiation-affected areas (once healed)

• Areas experiencing lymphedema or tension

Benefits of breast massage in oncology care include:

• Softening scar tissue and improving mobility

• Reducing pain, swelling, and tightness in the chest

• Supporting lymphatic drainage to reduce lymphedema

• Encouraging gentle re-connection with your body post-surgery

• Providing emotional release in a safe, trauma-informed space

• Reduces cording post-surgery 

We take a sensitive, respectful, and professional approach. You are always in control of your session, and we honor any boundaries you choose to set.

Benefits of Oncology Massage 

Physical Relief:

• Alleviates fatigue, soreness, tension, nausea, and pain

• Reduces inflammation, swelling, and lymphedema

• Relieves joint and muscle stiffness

• Improves circulation 

• Promotes better sleep 

• Eases nausea, neuropathy, and digestive issues 

• Reduces fatigue 

• Assists with recovery after surgery or treatment

Emotional & Psychological Benefits:

• Soothes anxiety, fear, and emotional overwhelm, calming the nervous system

• Promotes deep relaxation and comfort

• Boosts mood and emotional resilience 

• Fosters a sense of grounding and safety

• Enhances self-esteem and body awareness

• Provides a moment of peace and stillness during a chaotic time

• Supports recovery and self-confidence 

• Encourages post-trauma integration through compassionate touch

Research and clinical experience show that gentle massage during or after cancer treatment can offer powerful physical and emotional support.

Many clients describe oncology massage as “grounding,” “nurturing,” or “restorative”—especially during a time when their bodies feel unfamiliar or under stress.

Safety and Contraindications

Oncology massage is safe when performed by a therapist with proper training and knowledge of oncology care. However, special considerations apply:

Always inform your therapist if you have:

• Active blood clots (DVT, PE)

• Active infections

• Low platelet counts, neutrophils, or white blood cell counts

• Recent radiation, chemotherapy, or bone marrow transplant

• Open wounds, skin irritation, radiation burns, or sensitive skin

• Surgical drains, ports, or lymphedema

•  Bone metastases or fragile bones (e.g., from osteoporosis or medication)

• Severe fatigue or pain flare-ups

We may ask for a physician’s clearance before beginning breast or lymphatic massage. Our therapist(s) always adapt treatments based on your current condition, treatment plan, and comfort level.

What to Expect During a Session

At Gentle Waves Massage & Wellness Centre, we prioritize comfort, dignity, and choice.

• Your session begins with a gentle consultation to understand how you're feeling that day

• You will be comfortably positioned—on your side, back, or with special cushioning as needed

• Gentle, nurturing strokes are used to soothe the body without overstimulation, focusing on safety and relaxation

• Optional breast massage offered only with clear, written and verbal consent

• Sessions may be shorter than traditional massages (30–60 minutes) depending on your energy level and medical status

• Our treatment room is quiet, warm, and emotionally safe

We work gently, respectfully, and with your full consent—always adjusting our approach based on your needs.You remain in full control throughout, with plenty of breaks and support as needed.

Ready to book?

If you or a loved one is navigating cancer, you don’t have to do it alone. Let us offer you a safe place to rest, reconnect, and heal—through skilled touch, heartfelt care, and deep compassion.

You deserve care that honors your strength and supports your healing. Let our trained oncology massage therapists walk alongside you with safe, skilled touch designed to comfort and restore.

Whether you're seeking pain relief, a moment of peace, or compassionate support, we're here for you. You are welcome here—just as you are.