Oncology Massage Therapy: Enhancing Patient Care Through Safe, Evidence-Based Touch
As integrative care becomes an essential component of oncology treatment, healthcare professionals are seeking evidence-based therapies that support patient well-being while complementing medical interventions. Oncology massage therapy is a specialized form of therapeutic touch designed to safely address the unique needs of cancer patients, providing relief from pain, fatigue, anxiety, and treatment side effects. This workshop will equip medical professionals, integrative care practitioners, and licensed massage therapists with the knowledge and tools to incorporate oncology massage into patient care plans and healthcare settings. Participants will explore the latest peer-reviewed research on the benefits of oncology massage therapy, understand critical safety considerations, and learn strategies for integrating massage into a multidisciplinary care model. Through interactive discussions and real-world case studies, attendees will gain insights into establishing oncology massage programs in hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers. The workshop will also address common implementation challenges, such as securing institutional support, training qualified therapists, and aligning massage therapy with medical protocols. By the end of this session, participants will be prepared to advocate for and implement oncology massage therapy as a key component of integrative cancer care, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
Learning Objectives:
1. Define Oncology Massage Therapy and Its Scope Explain what oncology massage entails and how it differs from general therapeutic massage. Discuss the specialized training and knowledge required to safely provide massage for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
2. Understand the Benefits of Oncology Massage Examine how oncology massage therapy improves the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of cancer patients. Review research findings and evidence-based outcomes demonstrating its effectiveness in managing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, stress, and nausea.
3. Recognize the Role of Oncology Massage therapy in Holistic Care Highlight how oncology massage therapy integrates with medical care, supporting patients through chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical recovery. Identify the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to patient-centered care.
4. Design Oncology Massage Programs for Healthcare Facilities Explore frameworks for establishing oncology massage therapy programs in hospitals, cancer centers, and other healthcare facilities. Provide actionable steps for securing funding, hiring qualified therapists, and gaining support from stakeholders.
5. Engage in Collaborative Discussions and Networking Facilitate interactive discussions on how oncology massage aligns with attendees’ professional goals and facility missions. Encourage sharing of ideas and experiences to inspire innovative approaches to program development.
Target Audience:
This workshop is designed for medical professionals, oncology care teams, hospital administrators, rehabilitation specialists, and licensed massage therapists interested in integrating evidence-based oncology massage therapy into patient care. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits, safety considerations, and implementation strategies for incorporating oncology massage into clinical settings, enhancing holistic and patient-centered care.
Facilitators:
Cara Thurman, CMT, NCBTMB, is a nationally certified massage therapist, entrepreneur, and founder of Vinings Massage & Wellness. A lifelong congenital heart patient, her journey through multiple open-heart surgeries inspired her to bring compassionate, clinical massage therapy into medical settings. After discovering the power of massage therapy during her recovery, she pursued training in oncology massage therapy and has since become a national educator and leader in integrative care. Her practice supports people facing cancer, chronic illness & their caretakers. VMW also partners with major hospitals to provide patient facing massage therapy services, bridging the gap between traditional medicine and therapeutic touch.
Emily Beard, RN, OCN, CBCN, is an oncology nurse and patient navigator specializing in breast cancer quality, survivorship, and health equity. As Program Coordinator at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, she leads gynecologic and breast cancer program development and process improvement. A gifted communicator and advocate, Emily’s clinical focus includes metastatic disease, hereditary cancer, fertility preservation, and sexual health. She chairs the Board of Team Maggie’s Dream and serves on multiple national advisory boards. A 2023 Matt Mumber Award recipient, Emily is dedicated to listening, collaboration, and empowering patients, caregivers, and providers through education and compassionate, patient-centered care.