Body massage?

[1735]

Is it true or false once you've had breast cancer that you cannot get a massage? Teri

[vwel]

Hi Teri, you have to be careful as massages move around the lymphatic fluid in your body. It's best to check in with your oncologist as some massage places will only allow any treatments with a supporting letter. Breast Cancer Haven offers some amazing therapies which are just as good as a massage so have a peek at their website.xxx

[1735 in reply to vwel]

Thank you for your reply... I didn't think so myself but thought I'd put it out there x

[vwel in reply to 1735]

It's one of the things that would be so welcome but I found reflexology really gentle and relaxing and also shiatsu.xxx

[Hidden]

It's a myth! Depending if you had cancer in your lymph nodes and then avoid the associated area and arm, leaving that part to a specialist physiotherapist. The only advice I was given was to leave it until post all treatment but more because massage therapists won't touch you!

Good luck and enjoy.

[Jowigs]

Yes. I checked with my doctor and she said its fine and I have since had a full body massage. Best check with your doc/onc though as it may be different for different people.x

[Maz1965]

Hi Teri... it all depends on how long it is since your were diagnosed. Some beauty therapists will refuse to do any massage, especially around the back, lymph nodes etc, if it is within a certain time period, others will require a letter from your oncologist to say that they are happy for you to have a massage.

There are other types of treatments that you can get... enjoy!!! x

[Hidden]

My oncology unit have volunteers who give free sessions of alternative therapies. One if the therapies is message. You are alliwed 3 free sessions. I think you have to be careful who does it and make sure they understand about the cancer and lymph node sites if you are finding your own therapist. They must be qualified. Your breast care nurse should be able to advise xx

[Maxrob]

I am a qualified Physiotherapist and Sports Massage Therapist.

Massage is not contraindicated after cancer but some beauty massage therapists may not have a full understanding of the implications on the lymphatic system. As Chrissie says whoever you go to needs to have a certain level of understanding.

I was undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy while I was doing my Sports Massage course so we discussed it with the group.

Can't massage towards lymph nodes which are no longer there!

[Susan8574]

False, have a massage and enjoy.

Just had input from a local spa who specialise in cancer patients, and you can, and I have had a few since diagnosis .

Go and enjoy

Susan

[1735]

Thanks Susan x

[louise007]

I had shiatsu at the Haven in Hereford it was brilliant.I loved everything about it ..Had a two hour drive to get there as well so I really found it so beneficial. Mind body and soul .I wish I could find someone in the west midlands who does it .give it a go you won't regret it . I had four sessions free at Hereford.

[Nicholjac]

Massages love em spas love em steam room sauna jaccuzzi the lot

Treat yourself

Ive had everything chemo radio

Just enjoyx

[Lorraineam]

I was told by breast care nurses to avoid saunas, Jacuzzis and steam rooms because of the risk of lymphodema after lymph node removal.

[lovesradio]

I have lymhoedema following mastectomy and node removal in my left arm. I was advised against saunas and steam rooms because of the high temperatures involved. Jacuzzis not really a problem as they just involve moving water. Because of lymphoedema I have avoided full body massage.

[Blueskye]

Definitely not a problem. I checked this with my surgeon. Some salons will say not but they don't know what they're talking about. Just tell them your oncologist has said it is fine.