Yes. This is called prehabilitation. Improving strength, mobility, breathing, and overall physical function before surgery may help support recovery afterward. Education before surgery can also help you know what to expect and prepare for your rehabilitation.

In many cases, yes. Oncology informed massage is specifically adapted to support individuals who are currently receiving cancer treatment, recovering from treatment, living with long term side effects, or navigating survivorship. Every session is modified based on your medical history, treatment plan, symptoms, and comfort level to help ensure care is provided safely and appropriately.

Oncology massage is always adapted with your safety in mind. While a physician’s note is not required in all cases, approval or guidance from your physician or oncology team may be necessary depending on your medical situation.

If this applies to you, it will be discussed before your session so that any recommended clearance or communication with your healthcare providers can be arranged. This helps ensure your treatment is appropriate, safe, and fully aligned with your overall care plan.

Oncology informed massage involves specialised knowledge and adaptations that take into account the effects of cancer and cancer treatments on the body. Adjustments may be made to positioning, pressure, treatment areas, session length, pacing, and overall treatment approach to support safety, comfort, and individual needs.

The goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and individualised treatment experience that promotes comfort, relaxation, and overall well being. Care is guided by thoughtful communication, informed consent, clinical considerations, and respect for each person's unique experience and needs.

Many individuals can receive massage during chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or other cancer treatments. Treatment plans are carefully adapted based on your current health status, symptoms, treatment schedule, and with recommendations from your healthcare team when appropriate.

Many clients report feeling more relaxed, grounded, and supported following treatment. While massage is not a treatment for anxiety or mental health conditions, but it may help promote relaxation, nervous system regulation, and emotional well being.

Oncology Informed Massage is not intended to treat cancer or replace medical care. However, some individuals find that gentle massage may help support comfort, relaxation, and relief from muscular tension and stress that can accompany treatment and recovery.

Treatment areas are always considered carefully. Modifications may be made around surgical sites, radiation areas, ports, medical devices, lymphedema risk areas, or other treatment related concerns. Your comfort and safety will guide all treatment decisions.

Cancer related fatigue is a common concern and is carefully considered during treatment planning. Sessions can be modified to include gentler techniques, shorter treatment times, supportive positioning, and a slower pace to help ensure the experience remains comfortable and manageable.

If treatment related fatigue or illness is severe enough that you are unable to leave your home, same day cancellations are understood with compassion and will not be subject to a late cancellation fee. Please notify me as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your appointment.

If you have lymphedema or are at risk of developing lymphedema, it is important to work with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) who can assess your individual needs, provide appropriate treatment, education, and help you safely manage your condition.

• Kate-Lynn McKenzie of Flowing Roots Wellness is a Dr. Vodder trained Certified Lymphedema Therapist

• Learn more about Lymphedema and Lymphedema Management here.

Your first appointment will include a discussion about your health history, cancer diagnosis, treatments (past/ongoing/upcoming), current symptoms, comfort needs, and treatment goals. This conversation helps ensure your massage is tailored specifically to your circumstances and preferences.

Axillary Web Syndrome, often called cording, is a condition that can occur after breast cancer surgery or lymph node removal. It causes tight, rope like bands of tissue that may limit shoulder movement and create discomfort extending into the arm or chest. Gentle massage techniques and guided exercises may help improve mobility and reduce symptoms.

Oncology massage often uses gentle to moderate pressure, and slow movements to help ease pain, fatigue and anxiety. We don’t want to harm any fragile tissue from treatments or worsen treatment side effects.

Absolutely. Many people feel uncertain about receiving treatment after a cancer diagnosis. My goal is to create a welcoming, calm, and supportive environment where you can ask questions, move at your own pace, and feel confident that your care is being adapted specifically for your needs. You are always in control of your treatment, and your comfort and consent remain central throughout every visit!

Your health always comes first. If you're feeling unwell or develop symptoms of illness before your appointment, please let me know as soon as possible and focus on getting the rest you need.

If treatment related fatigue or illness is severe enough that you are unable to leave your home, same day cancellations are understood with compassion and will not be subject to a late cancellation fee. Please notify me as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your appointment.

Once you're feeling better, i’ll be happy to help you reschedule your visit. Your health, comfort, and well being are always the priority.

No. Oncology Informed Massage is appropriate for individuals at every stage of the cancer journey. Whether you are newly diagnosed, preparing for surgery, undergoing treatment, recovering from treatment, living with long-term or late effects, in remission, or navigating survivorship, care is thoughtfully adapted to meet your individual needs.

Many people continue to experience symptoms such as pain, fatigue, scar tissue restrictions, swelling, limited mobility, or ongoing stress long after treatment has ended. Oncology Informed Massage provides a safe, compassionate, and individualized approach to support comfort, relaxation, recovery, and overall well-being, wherever you are in your journey.