Cancer recovery is often a long and challenging journey, both physically and emotionally.

The disease itself and the often aggressive medical treatments required to battle the disease can result in a range of debilitating symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and stress.

While these issues can be managed medically, many patients are seeking alternative or complementary approaches to support their recovery and improve their quality of life.

In honour of World Cancer Day tomorrow, it's important to remember that recovery from cancer is not solely about eliminating the disease. It's about caring for the whole person. Managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.

Manual therapists are playing an increasing role in supporting cancer patients throughout their recovery process.

Practitioners can use gentle treatments to help manage symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and promote overall well-being

Treatment type and intensity will always be dependent upon the patient’s symptoms, degree of pain/sensitivity and preference.

Treatment types may include:

• Soft tissue massage; ranging from gentle manual lymphatic drainage techniques to deep tissue and trigger point release.
  • Aimed toward; lymphatic drainage, pain management, breakdown of scar tissue and adhesions, increasing range of motion, general relaxation.

• Guided Relaxation/Breathing Exercises; including coaching on diaphragmatic breath, meditation, movement and self-massage practices for relaxation.
  • Aimed toward pain, stress and fatigue management

• Stretching and Muscle Energy Technique (MET)
  • Aimed toward; pain management, breakdown of scar tissue and adhesions, increasing range of motion and overall comfort.

These therapies are generally non-invasive, gentle, and well-tolerated by patients.

Potentially making them a valuable complement to traditional cancer therapies.