What is Oncology Massage?
Let me share a little of the journey that led me to specialise in Oncology Massage..
After finishing college, I began my career in a five-star spa, delivering luxury treatments to a wide range of guests. Many of the people I worked with were living with significant health concerns, cancer being the most common. At the time, my training had taught that cancer was a strict contraindication to massage, particularly for anyone undergoing treatment. Like many therapists, I was aware of the fear and uncertainty that still exists within the massage industry around working with cancer patients—much of which I later learned is unsupported.
During my spa years, I had the privilege of treating a wonderful research nurse. Through open and thoughtful conversations about massage and cancer care, she introduced me to the complementary therapy team at my local hospital. Around the same time, I enrolled in an oncology massage CPD course, feeling hopeful that I would finally gain the knowledge and confidence to support clients safely and appropriately.
Unfortunately, the course fell far short of what was promised. Rather than offering meaningful education, it reduced oncology massage to “just a light Swedish massage,” leaving me frustrated and concerned by the lack of depth, care, and understanding being taught. I knew my clients deserved better.
After sharing this experience with my hospital colleagues, I was encouraged to train with Susan Findlay. That decision proved to be truly life-changing. Her depth of knowledge, skill and ability to teach transformed my understanding of massage, and the role it can play in supporting people through cancer and serious illness.
From there, my learning continued. After the Oncology course with Susan I went on to complete her year-long Sports and Remedial Soft Tissue Therapy course in London, all with the intention of offering more informed and adaptable care to support my clients.
This journey has shaped how I work today—grounded in compassion and a deep respect for each person’s individual experience.
So how is Oncology Massage different?
Oncology massage is a specialised form of massage therapy designed to support people living with or recovering from cancer as well as other serious health conditions. It is adapted to the clients medical history, current treatment and overall health, ensuring the massage is both safe and effective.
Rather than following a routine, oncology massage responds to how the body’s tissue feels and reacts on the day. Techniques, pressure, positioning and session length are carefully adjusted to support the body without overloading it. The focus is on listening to the tissue, working thoughtfully rather than forcefully and promoting comfort, relaxation and wellbeing. The intention is to support recovery - not to leave the body needing to recover from the massage.
