Massage therapy has many proven benefits for people affected by cancer. With 2 in 5 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, all RMTs should be informed about how massage therapy can help, and equally important, how to safely massage someone in the context of cancer.

Unfounded beliefs still pervade our conversations around massage therapy and cancer. Does massage spread cancer? Should RMTs wear gloves? Can someone in active treatment receive massage? What signs & symptoms would concern an RMT? When should an RMT refer a patient to their physician? How can an RMT reassure their patient and sensitively work within their comfort level?

In this 90-minute webinar, we’ll debunk outdated myths, highlight red flags, and list contraindications associated with cancer and massage. We’ll discuss effective communication and treatment options to help patients feel safe. We’ll review real clinical experiences and the decision-making process. While impossible to fully address this complex subject within a webinar, RMTs will leave feeling more comfortable and confident in working with people after a cancer diagnosis.

Learning Outcomes:

Participants will be able to

*Understand the origin of common cancer-massage myths and the current science that proves them wrong
*Become familiar with cancer-related red flags and how to navigate them with your patient
*Understand when massage therapy is contraindicated and how, if possible, to modify your treatment plan to remain safe
* Learn how to reassure patients about the safety of massage therapy in the context of a cancer diagnosis

CMTO Competencies:
*Apply the principles of sensitive practice
*Function in a client-centred manner
*Communicate effectively
*Practice in a manner consistent with current developments in the profession

About the Presenter:

Susan Shipton, MClSc., CDT, has been a RMT in Toronto since 2012 with a practice that focuses on helping people alleviate complications related to cancer treatment. In 2015, she became a Vodder-certified combined decongestive therapist, with training in manual lymph drainage, compression, and other means to manage lymphedema. 

In 2021, she completed a master’s degree in advanced health care practices: interprofessional pain management through Western University. She launched an online Oncology Massage Course in 2024 and has taught RMTs from across Canada and the U.S.

Notes:

-Registration Deadline: Tuesday, September 9 by 9:00am.

-All webinar registrations are on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited capacity on total registrations per webinar.

-Webinar will be recorded. All registered participants will receive a link to the webinar recording. Access to the recording will be available for up to 3 months from the webinar date.

 

Recording Consent Disclaimer for RMTAO Webinars:

This webinar will be recorded. By registering for the event, you are providing your consent to being recorded and the use of your image and voice by the RMTAO in replaying the webinar in the future.