Oncology Massage with Liz Gifford at BWT Physio!

September 11, 2024

 

What is it?

Oncology Massage is the adaptation of massage techniques to safely nurture the body of someone during a cancer diagnosis, during medical treatment, when in remission, through palliative care with a terminal diagnosis and through survivorship.

Oncology Massage is a non-invasive technique, specifically adapted for individuals of all ages and all types of cancer.

 

How does it differ from regular massage?

Massage adaptations are imperative to take into account the following common issues experienced by the cancer patient.

• Low blood cell counts 
• Blood clots
• Bone metastases
• Radiation or surgery
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Bone pain
• Medications
• Medical devices (venous access devices, drains, pumps, shunts, collection bags)
• Delayed effects of treatment

 

What is required in massaging the patient with cancer?

• A detailed registration form will be completed, including details of the type of cancer you have (or had), your treatment history, your current treatment regime, any symptoms or side-effects you are experiencing, and any medical devices or lymph node involvement you may have.
• A lighter pressure massage than a normal massage.
• Any area of your body that has compromised lymph nodes will be treated very mindfully. 
• Depending on issues specific to your body, the position you lie in will be modified to accommodate any surgical or radiation sites or specific medical devices you may have. 
• If you have low blood counts, you may receive a specific gentle technique that addresses the potential for easy bruising.

 

Research has shown that massage can improve wellbeing and reduce side effects during cancer treatments and benefit patients in the following ways;

• Reduced pain and fatigue
• Decreased anxiety
• Less nausea
• Improved sleep
• Eased feelings of isolation
• Greater sense of well-being
• Improve Peripheral Neuropathy

 

Some Information about me, Liz Gifford

As an oncology trained nurse with over 30 years specialist experience, I have extensive knowledge and skills in treating patients with all types of cancer. Together with enormous experience of managing side effects to and from treatments I am a capable, compassionate practitioner.

I began my career in 1984 as a student in adult nursing, within the first placement of my training I knew I wanted to make a difference to the patients I met with cancer. After undertaking my initial oncology & palliative nursing course in 1990, I went on to complete my BSc(Hons) at the Institute of Cancer Nursing and Manchester University graduating in 1998. I have worked clinically for almost 40 years as a nurse which includes a 15 year period assessing and managing secondary lymphoedema.

More recently, I made the decision to change direction somewhat, while still using all my specialist knowledge and skills, training to become a lymphoedema therapist undertaking Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and further training as an oncology massage therapist. I have seen how much benefit patients receive from complementary therapies and so it seemed a natural progression for me to learn the skills required to support people in this way.

 

My qualifications and memberships;

• “Fill and Flush “ FDG MLD LTA Ltd
• Massage Therapist level 3 Dip Distinction
• Oncology Massage Therapist FHT
• RGN Level 1 (Adult Nursing)
• BSc(Hons) Cancer Nursing
• PG Dip Clinical Leadership Cancer, palliative and End of life
• Hiscox Insured
• RCN Indemnity
• NMC 84Y3833E
• MLD UK member
• BLS, British Lymphology Society  member
• LSN, Lymphoedema Support Network member

 

Specialising in these therapies now enables me to offer treatments that I know provide great benefit to people who have experience of cancer and the immediate and often long-term side effects the diagnosis and treatments bring.

 

How do I book an appointment?

All appointments are based out of BWT Physio in Ashley Cross, Poole.

Prior to your appointment, you will receive an online pre-screening questionnaire designed to gather information about your surgeries or injuries, this allows your session to be tailored to your unique needs. During your visit, we will have a brief consultation to discuss the areas to focus and specific techniques I will use. I will provide personalised self-care suggestions for your recovery and well being beyond the session.

● 45 minute treatment £68
● 60 minute treatment £80

 

Please click here or call Reception on 01202 749 514 and speak with one of our team members to discuss your needs and arrange an appointment.