Is It Okay To Get A Massage If You Have Advanced Cancer?
My father has advanced, terminal cancer throughout his body and wants a massage. I have been told by a masseuse that it could cause more damage than good and even could cause the cancer to further metastasize.
This is a theory, but has never been proven otherwise…however, best practice amongst physical therapist usually states to avoid any areas of known tumors during massage and to consult with the patient’s oncologist prior to receiving a massage. Other factors to consider are risk of pathological fracture as relatively light forces can cause a fracture in someone who has boney metastisis.
However, massage can be theraputic for both physical and emotional pain. Our facility (which contains a Cancer Institute) employs a massage therapist for cancer patients to receive a free massage. In general, he will avoid any areas of known tumor and also refrain from massaging the arm or any extremity that has had lymph node removal in order to prevent the onset of lymphedema.
I am sorry to hear that your father has terminal cancer. If this determination has been made, then I would do everything possible to make him more comfortable. Avoiding any areas of known tumor and discussing this with his oncologist would be best practice if he wishes to have a massage.
you can do anything that will make him feel better.. you cant tan or get a tattoo..
and id love to have a massage i have breast bone and brain cancer.. with all the pain it would feel good..
There is absolutely no problem to having a massage. IMHO if you have advanced, terminal cancer then you can do whatever you want if it gives you some comfort.
That is complete rubbish. its perfectly fine to have a massage.
Yes it is fine, he asked for a message not a “deep tissue message”. This would be comforting for him. Indulge him.
There are people who specialize in massage for cancer patients. My husband sees one through out local cancer center. Call your hospital or doctor and they may be able to recommend someone.
My I also give you this advise…..if your father is terminal, do whatever makes him the most comfortable and happy. If a massage is requested and you can find someone who is understanding and gentle…do it. At this point what does it matter? My feeling is – make the person’s last days good ones.
My prayers and thoughts are with you both….I know how you are feeling.
Consult his doctor. If he wants this and he is terminal I think it may help him out just to get some relaxation and relief for his pain.
I am not sure about massage (though I see why not) but look at an alternative called Reiki. This is used in several hospices that i know of.
Bless you and your father
I would trust the masseuse.
The manipulation of the muscle tissues could spread the cancer, or aggrivate it.
Depending on where the cancer is in the body you can massage in areas around it ok. I would get a second opinion and also consult your doctor for advice.
Since the cancer is terminal then whatever makes your dad feel better he should have. It’s better in some cases to live your life to the full, and enjoy what you can while you can, you know what i mean?
I know if I had terminal cancer I wouldnt worry about the bad effects of a massage, I would just want a lovely massage!
Sorry about your father, it’s tough I know. Do what you can to help him feel great