Oncology Massage: Fact vs. Myth

(564 reviews)

10 CE Hours


Course Options:

  • Materials and Test Shipped to You
  • Text Materials Shipped and Test Online

Description

This practical continuing education course deconstructs common myths about the use of massage in cancer treatment. Focusing on the use of touch techniques to provide comfort and ameliorate the side effects of conventional cancer treatment, the course text also provides the most recent research, the use of bodywork techniques to strengthen the body during and after treatment and the importance of gathering detailed information about a client's medical history. Charts for the adjustment of massage techniques according to the treatment a patient is undergoing and appendices summarizing research on oncology patients and massage are also included.

In this course, you will learn about:

  • the current paradigm shift in massaging clients who have cancer
  • key factors regarding massage and metastasis
  • specific variables in research related to massage for people who have cancer
  • potential benefits of bodywork for cancer patients
  • common short-term and long-term side effects of conventional cancer treatments
  • essential elements involved in gloving
  • massage for children living with cancer
  • adjustments necessary to make a bodywork session less demanding for the client
  • how bodywork can strengthen the vital organs, immune function and psychological response for clients who have cancer
  • how massage can give comfort in the final stages of life
  • recommendations for giving bodywork to caregivers in the home

Touch is vital to cancer patients' health and well-being and massage is a proven way to receive the benefits of touch. This CE program clearly informs therapists how to adjust their massage techniques in order to give massage sessions in a safe, effective manner for those with cancer as they receive treatment and during their recovery process.

Course Reviews

Jillian Hubbel, CMP

Thank you for this class. Much of the information learned 15 years ago in massage school is not valid. I appreciate the updated information and the evidence that supports the information. Evidence based material lends more credibility to the information and allows me to be confident that this information will not allow me to cause harm to my clients. I had been asking for this very class for years and it was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you.

Theresa Kelley, Albuquerque, NM

This was one of the best courses I've ever taken. I have been licensed 8 years and have always avoided cancer because of what I was taught in massage school. I certainly feel enlightened! The explanation of the way that cancer spreads was well written and done so in a way that was understandable yet concise enough to cover all the information described in your course content.

Maryjane Michaud, MA, LMT, Worcester, MA

I found this course to be extremely helpful and timely as I am serving more and more clients at varying stages of cancer treatment in my practice. It's nice to know I can add something positive and helpful to their lives.

Tamara Jorgensen

The textbook, Medicine Hands was incredibly engaging. It renewed my pride and passion for my profession. I am greatful for the opportunity to engage in this material. Thank you!

Janis Sommers, LMT

This course, in particular, is important information for all massage therapists to know. The techniques and contents in the text book work for many chronic health conditions other than cancer. Bravo to author, Gayle MacDonald for compiling the research and shearing them in this updated edition. I am a very happy student.

Read more reviews

Materials

  • Text - 225 pages
  • Multiple-choice test
  • Certificate upon completion

Display Certificates suitable for framing are available for $10 in addition to the certificate included with your tuition. Click here to order a Display Certificate.

Approvals

The Institute is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider. Approved Provider 049478-00.

Credits also accepted by the AMTA, ABMP as well as most state boards.

For information regarding your specific state massage license requirements and approvals, visit our Massage Therapy Continuing Education Requirements page by clicking here.

Back to top