Physiologically, massage stimulates and improves circulation within the body boosting the level of oxygen and nutrients within a cell as well as stimulating the removal of waste products. It also directly stimulates and invigorates the lymphatic drainage system. 

Sports and remedial massage additionally helps to rebalance the soft tissues within our bodies by stretching short tight muscles and helping to strengthen weaker muscles by improving muscle tone and through rehabilitation exercises given after treatment. It can also help to break down adhesions and scar tissue so the muscle fibres align correctly again enabling the muscle to work properly.

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IS IT SAFE FOR ME TO HAVE A MASSAGE IF I HAVE CANCER?

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Some people worry that massage could cause cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. Research has not found any evidence of this happening. However I will avoid any areas affected by cancer, such as, but not limited to:

• tumour sites

• areas being treated with radiotherapy

• the area around intravenous catheters (such as central lines) and pain relief patches

• areas affected by blood clots, poor circulation or varicose veins

• a colostomy bag site

• areas where lymph nodes are affected 

this is to avoid discomfort or pressure on the affected area and underlying organs. I may instead, if I feel it would be more beneficial for your comfort and wellbeing, choose to modify a massage to areas not directly affected by medical treatment such as your hands or feet instead. 

A light, relaxing massage can safely be given to people at all stages of cancer. 

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE TREATMENT SESSION?

There are 3 stages to each treatment as outlined below. The first time I see you the assessment will be more extensive, but each time we see each other I will ask you how you are and re-assess your posture and musculoskeletal alignment.

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1. Assessment

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I’ll assess your posture, joints and range of movement to pinpoint the cause of injury. We will talk through any injury and medical history, the activities you take part in at work, in sport or in your daily routine and hobbies and talk through the reason(s) for your appointment. 

2. Treatment Plan 

The therapies chosen will be tailored to your specific needs and may involve using several massage techniques. During the treatment I may ask you to change position. 

3. Post treatment advice/ rehabilitation 

I firmly believe in enabling clients to take an active part in their recovery should they wish to do so. After the treatment I will give you a list of stretches and strengthening exercises tailored specifically for you to do at home to support and enhance the treatment given.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

Shorts are ideal and girls/women should wear a normal bra and vest top as well. I will cover areas of your body not being treated with a towel(s) during the treatment session.