Supporting Oncology & Surgical Recovery with Pre & Post-Op Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Calgary

Post-Op Lymphatic Drainage Massage for Cancer Patients

At Renu, we understand the complexities faced by individuals living with or recovering from cancer treatments. Our post-op lymphatic massage is carefully adapted to safely address the unique physical and emotional needs of oncology patients, promoting healing and overall wellness at each stage of the cancer journey.

Our therapists hold specialized training in oncology massage, ensuring safe, gentle, and effective treatment for:

• Lumpectomy and Mastectomy

• Lymph Node Dissection

• Radiation Fibrosis

• Axillary Web Syndrome (Chording)

• Post-surgical swelling and discomfort

Lymphatic Massage for Oncology Patients in Calgary

It is noted that cancer patients may find the therapeutic benefits of lymphatic massage a beneficial adjunct to their oncology treatments to enhance their wellness journey. Oncology massage differs significantly from regular massage, such that it is tailored to meet the unique and changing needs of someone undergoing cancer treatment or someone with a history of cancer. Our certified lymphedema therapists undergo specialized training in oncology and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), enabling them to safely modify treatments for individuals undergoing or recovering from chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical treatments involving lymph nodes.

Is Oncology Massage Safe During Cancer Treatment?

It is noted that while generally safe, there are contraindications we are mindful of when treating patients with cancer. Some of this may include active infections, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk, malignant tumors, and major heart problems.

To ensure safe and effective care, each lymphatic massage treatment is customized according to the needs of the patient.

What to expect for your treatment:

• When there are contraindications that arise; our treatments are designed with the approval of your medical team, ensuring your safety and comfort.

• Targeting specific symptoms related to cancer treatments such as fatigue, nausea, anxiety, and pain.

• Carefully monitor and treats signs of lymphedema or swelling.

• Employ gentle, therapeutic techniques specifically adapted to your individual health status. Our Certified Lymphedema Therapists are graduates from the Chikly Health Institute and are trained in the Vodder Method.

With deep care and consideration; oncology massage therapy can safely be integrated into your care, even during chemotherapy. It’s gentle enough to reduce anxiety, manage chemotherapy-induced nausea, and alleviate pain, while carefully avoiding areas sensitive due to medical interventions.

Benefits of Oncology Lymphatic Massage:

• Reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea

• Improves sleep quality and energy levels

• Manages anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms

• Alleviates pain and discomfort

• Stimulates immune response and healing

• Supports emotional wellness and relaxation

Improving Lymphedema with Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients

Lymphedema is one of the most common reasons oncology patients seek lymphatic drainage therapy. Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or the cancer treatment itself; it occurs when the cancerous tumor blocks the lymphatic system, or when surgery or radiation therapy disrupts the flow of lymphatic fluid. In cases where lymph nodes are removed; lymphedema occurs due to the removal of the structures that drain the fluids in our body. Lymph nodes act like drains in a sink; if the drain is damaged, then the fluid cannot drain and will build up.

Cancer and Lymphedema

Cancer or its treatments can trigger lymphedema by:

• Blocking lymph fluid flow directly due to tumors.

• Surgical removal of lymph nodes or surrounding tissues, disrupting normal lymph flow.

• Scar tissue formation caused by radiation therapy, creating blockages in lymph vessels.

Your risk for developing lymphedema depends largely on the type, stage, and location of your cancer, as well as the specific treatments received.

Additional Risk Factors for Lymphedema

Several factors may further increase your likelihood of developing lymphedema, including:

• Infection following surgery or radiation

• Slow healing or complications after surgery

• Removal of multiple lymph nodes

• History of previous radiation treatments or surgeries

• Advanced-stage cancer diagnosis

• Being overweight or obese

It’s important to discuss your specific risk factors with your healthcare provider to create an effective prevention or management plan.

Lymphedema and Breast Cancer

Breast cancer treatments frequently involve surgery or radiation therapy targeting lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph nodes). Removal or damage to these lymph nodes significantly increases the likelihood of developing lymphedema.

If you've undergone breast cancer treatment, you may notice swelling in your arm, hand, chest, or torso on the treated side. Early intervention, including lymphatic drainage therapy, can greatly reduce complications and manage symptoms effectively.

Lymphedema Associated with Other Cancers

While lymphedema commonly affects limbs, it can develop anywhere in your body, depending on your type of cancer and the treatments administered. Certain cancers and their treatments pose a higher risk because they're located near critical lymphatic pathways:

• Abdominal and Pelvic Cancers: Individuals with ovarian, endometrial, cervical, prostate, colorectal, vaginal, or vulvar cancer frequently experience swelling in the legs, genitals, or abdomen.

• Head and Neck Cancers: Swelling can occur in your face, neck, or under the chin. Internal swelling in areas like the throat might not be visibly apparent but can significantly affect comfort and function.

• Lymphoma: As a cancer directly impacting lymphatic white blood cells, lymphoma may cause lymphedema due to blockages within lymphatic vessels.

• Melanoma and Sarcoma: These cancers, when treated surgically, may also trigger localized lymphedema.

Understanding the correlation between your specific cancer type and potential lymphedema sites can guide early detection, prompt management, and effective symptom relief.
It an article on Cancer & Massage Therapy, it was noted that in the cases of lymph node removals; “manual lymph drainage techniques are designed to cautiously redirect fluid to functional pathways and are indicated for lymphedema.”