Cancer Care

Oncology Massage

Oncology massage is the modification of existing massage therapy techniques in order to safely work with complications of cancer and cancer treatment. Oncology massage can help cancer patients deal with anxiety, depression, nausea, fatigue, pain relief, improved body image, and improved sleep.

Anyone who has ever received cancer treatment, from those in active treatment to those in recovery or survivorship, as well as those at the end of life, are best served by a massage therapist who has received training in oncology massage. Certain massage modifications will remain crucial even decades after treatment is complete. When providing massage for someone who has a history of cancer treatment, primary massage considerations include but are not limited to bone integrity, vital organ involvement, and compromised lymph nodes.

Our massage therapist, David Whaley LMT, is certified in Oncology Massage to care for cancer clients.

David Whaley has been a licensed massage therapist and energy work healer since 1994. He is trained in Oncology Massage. He is a Reiki master, Polarity Practitioner, and a licensed, certified massage therapist. David enjoys serving others with a caring touch. Many people remark on David’s amazing hands and his big heart.

David utilizes clinical assessments and adaptations and adjusts the massage session to provide a safe massage for those experiencing cancer or with a history of cancer treatment.

Oncology Certified Skincare

Tamara Townsend, a licensed Oncology Esthetician since 2005, has received advanced training from Oncology Spa Solutions.

Standard facial treatments are contraindicated for clients undergoing cancer treatments due to various factors, including steam, extractions, exfoliation, and certain massage techniques. With oncology training, Tamara tailors skin care therapies to address the client’s specific cancer and treatment-related skin concerns. She assists clients preparing for or undergoing cancer surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy by optimizing their skin’s healing process. Given the potential long-term effects of cancer treatment, it is crucial to collaborate with professionals like Tamara who possess specialized training in safely treating individuals with a history of cancer.

Tamara’s expertise encompasses the management of various skin conditions, including chest or decollete healing, scar repair, extreme skin sensitivity, skin reconstruction following grafting or radiation, dry and scaling skin, skin strengthening, inflammation and irritation alleviation.

Tamara is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals organization.