Whether you’re experiencing pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, or anxiety, our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are trained in oncology and lymphatic techniques to safely and effectively support you at every stage of recovery. 

We understand how cancer and its treatments can affect the body, and we meet you with compassion, warmth, and the skilled hands of a team that truly cares. 

What Is Oncology Massage?

Oncology massage is a modified approach to massage therapy designed specifically for people with cancer or a history of cancer. It adapts traditional techniques to respect surgical sites, lymph node removal, active treatments, or lymphedema risk, and is always tailored to your individual needs including adapted positioning to maintain comfort throughout your treatment. 

Oncology massage can help reduce: 

• Pain and muscle tension 
• Stress and anxiety 
• Nausea 
• Fatigue 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Emotional distress 

Massage therapy also helps promote circulation, improve tissue health, and ease fascial restrictions that may develop after surgery, radiation, or reconstructive procedures. 

Lymphatic Massage

We offer gentle manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) for people with lymphedema, lipedema, or those at risk of developing swelling after surgery or lymph node removal. MLD encourages natural lymph flow, reduces congestion, and supports the immune system. 

Our therapists have undergone over 300 hours of extended training in lymphatics and are certified in advanced techniques and can work in conjunction with your complete lymphedema management plan, including compression, exercise, and skincare education. 

What to Expect

Your first massage therapy session includes a thorough intake and assessment so we can understand your history, goals, and any modifications needed based on treatments, surgeries, or positioning preferences/limitations. Each session is private, one-on-one, and designed with your safety and comfort in mind. 

We can address: 

• Post-surgical discomfort or fascial tightness 
• Scarring or radiation fibrosis 
• Swelling or fluid retention 
• Chronic pain and tension 
• Nervous system regulation and relaxation 

At Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre, massage therapy is fully integrated into your care. Our massage therapists collaborate with other providers within our clinic, including physiotherapists, kinesiologists, dietitians, and psychotherapists, to ensure your treatment is well-coordinated.  

Our team has advanced training in oncology massage, lymphedema care, and trauma-informed practice. We are committed to making every person feel safe, seen, and empowered. 

We work with people of all genders, all lymphedema (or related disorders including lipedema) diagnoses, all plastic surgery interventions, all cancer types, and at all stages of recovery—from recent diagnosis to long-term survivorship. Whether you’re looking to reduce pain, manage swelling, or simply reconnect with your body, we’re here for you. 

Let us support your healing with the power of skilled, compassionate touch. Massage therapy can be a gentle and grounding part of your journey back to comfort, ease, and wellbeing.