Compassionate, Evidence-Informed Care During and After Cancer Treatment
At Remedial Therapies SA, we understand that cancer treatment affects much more than the diagnosis itself. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy and hormone treatments can all have lasting effects on the body, including pain, swelling, fatigue, reduced mobility and scar tissue changes.
Our specialised oncology massage treatments are designed to support people living with cancer, those currently undergoing treatment and cancer survivors. Every treatment is carefully adapted to your individual medical history, treatment plan and current health.
Our priority is always to provide safe, gentle and person-centred care that works alongside your medical team.
What is Oncology Massage?
Oncology massage is a specialised form of massage therapy that has been adapted specifically for people affected by cancer.
Unlike a standard massage, every aspect of treatment—including positioning, pressure, duration and techniques—is modified according to your diagnosis, current treatment, side effects and overall wellbeing.
Treatment may focus on improving comfort, supporting movement and helping you manage the physical effects of cancer and its treatment.
How Oncology Massage May Help
Many people choose oncology massage to assist with:
- Muscle tension and stiffness
- Neck, shoulder and back pain
- Fatigue
- Stress and anxiety
- Reduced mobility
- Postural discomfort
- Sleep difficulties
- General wellbeing
- Recovery following surgery
- Radiation-related tissue tightness
Every person responds differently, and while massage cannot treat cancer itself, many people find it helps improve comfort and quality of life throughout their cancer journey.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage After Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment may affect the lymphatic system, particularly following lymph node removal or radiation therapy.
We provide Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for appropriate patients experiencing swelling or who require specialised lymphatic support.
MLD is a gentle, evidence-informed technique that encourages the movement of lymphatic fluid through functioning lymphatic pathways.
It may be appropriate for people experiencing:
- Swelling following cancer surgery
- Mild lymphatic congestion
- Tissue tightness
- Fluid retention
- Early lymphoedema (where appropriate)
Your therapist will complete a comprehensive assessment to determine whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage is suitable for your individual circumstances.
Lymphoedema Assessment and Management
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that can develop after cancer treatment when the lymphatic system has been damaged.
Early assessment and treatment are important, as prompt management may help reduce progression and improve quality of life.
At Remedial Therapies SA we provide assessment and conservative management for people living with lymphoedema, including education, Manual Lymphatic Drainage where indicated, compression garment guidance, exercise advice and ongoing self-management strategies.
If you have noticed persistent swelling following cancer treatment, we encourage you to seek assessment as early as possible.
Scar Tissue Therapy Following Cancer Surgery
Cancer surgery often leaves scar tissue that may continue to change for many months after healing.
Scar tissue can contribute to:
- Tightness
- Reduced movement
- Pain or tenderness
- Skin pulling
- Changes in posture
- Reduced function
Following a thorough assessment, treatment may include gentle scar mobilisation techniques, soft tissue therapy, education and movement strategies designed to improve tissue mobility and comfort.
Treatment is always adapted according to the stage of healing, previous treatments and your medical history.
Radiation Fibrosis and Tissue Tightness
Radiation therapy can sometimes lead to long-term changes within the skin, fascia and underlying soft tissues.
Some people experience:
- Tight skin
- Reduced neck or shoulder movement
- Jaw tightness
- Chest wall restriction
- Tissue fibrosis
- Discomfort during movement
Our therapists assess these changes carefully and develop an individual treatment plan that may include gentle soft tissue techniques, scar management, lymphatic support and home exercises where appropriate.
Why Choose Remedial Therapies SA?
Andrea and Jeremy have extensive experience working with people affected by cancer and complex medical conditions.
Our approach is based on current evidence, clinical reasoning and ongoing professional education. We regularly work with patients following breast cancer, head and neck cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, bowel cancer and many other cancer diagnoses.
Every treatment is tailored to the individual—not the diagnosis.
Is Oncology Massage Safe?
When performed by a therapist with appropriate training, oncology massage is considered safe for many people during and after cancer treatment.
Before your first appointment, we complete a comprehensive health assessment and discuss your diagnosis, treatments, medications, current symptoms and any precautions that need to be considered.
We also communicate with your treating medical team where appropriate to ensure your treatment remains safe and suitable.
Book an Oncology Massage Appointment in Adelaide
If you are living with cancer, recovering from treatment or managing ongoing effects such as lymphoedema, swelling, scar tissue or radiation fibrosis, we are here to help.
Our clinic provides compassionate, evidence-informed care tailored to your individual needs.
Contact Remedial Therapies SA today to book an appointment or discuss whether oncology massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage or scar therapy may be appropriate for you.