Cancer. It’s a word that carries weight, fear, and—most importantly—a complex reality that impacts every system in the body, including the mind and spirit.

Cancer is not a single disease, but rather a collection of conditions characterized by abnormal cell growth. It can begin almost anywhere in the body & in many cases, spreads or affects multiple systems.

The way pain & discomfort presents may vary but issues may relate to tumors that press on nerves, organs, or bones as well as treatments - surgery, chemo, radiation - which can lead to fatigue, nausea, insomnia, neuropathy, muscle weakness, & joint pain.  Beyond the physical? Cancer takes a deep toll on mental health. Depression, anxiety & PTSD are common among both patients & survivors. Even when the cancer is gone, the emotional imprint can linger.

Most Common Cancers (in Canada)

According to the Canadian Cancer Society (2024), the most common types of cancer are:

  • Breast cancer (most common in those assigned female at birth)

  • Prostate cancer (most common in those assigned male at birth)

  • Lung cancer

  • Colorectal cancer, which is increasing—especially in younger adults, and is strongly associated with diets low in fibre.

Massage Therapy Can Help

Massage therapy is not a cure for cancer—but it is a powerful complementary therapy. Here’s what the research and our experience show:

🔷 Easing Pain and Discomfort

Massage can relieve both the direct pain from tumors and the secondary pain caused by treatment. According to the Gate Control Theory of Pain, massage stimulates pressure receptors that send signals to the brain faster than pain receptors—essentially helping to “close the gate” on pain perception.

🔷 Supporting Mental and Emotional Health

Touch is healing. For clients going through or recovering from cancer, massage provides a sense of calm, connection, and care. Many report reduced anxiety, fewer depressive symptoms, and better sleep after sessions.

🔷 Reducing Side Effects

Massage therapy has shown benefits in reducing:

  • Nausea

  • Fatigue

  • Insomnia

  • Neuropathy symptoms (tingling, numbness)

  • Muscle stiffness

🔷 Promoting Movement

When mobility is safe and possible, movement is medicine. Gentle massage can encourage tissue mobility and circulation, supporting those who feel too weak for yoga or formal exercise.

Myths We’re Glad to Bust

❌ "Massage spreads cancer."

This outdated idea still lingers, but it's not supported by evidence. According to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, there is no scientific reason to believe massage can spread cancer—even in cases of lymphoma, which is already systemic.

“Massage does not cause tumor cells to move through the body.”
— Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Homecare and Support Strategies

  • Acupressure points: for fatigue, nausea, and general well-being.

  • Yoga or gentle stretching (as tolerated).

  • Teaching caregivers simple massage techniques—this not only helps clients but empowers family members and strengthens the emotional support system.

A Note for Our Clients & Caregivers:

We know cancer changes everything. Whether you’re in active treatment, recovering, or supporting someone you love - massage can be part of your healing. We aim to offer sessions with compassion, knowledge & care that adapts to where you’re at, day by day.

Remember: healing isn’t always linear—but connection, comfort & presence matter.

Resources