Massage Therapy for Cancer Patients

Massage therapy at Banner Desert Medical Center for the cancer patient helps soothe  the mind, body, emotions and spirit through a calming and caring touch.

Massage may diminish stress, tension, pain, nausea and anxiety and help with sleep, breathing and digestion.

There is no fee for this service. The program is funded through a Turquoise Week Grant funded by the Banner Health Foundation of Arizona.

Available oncology massages include:

• Massage sessions range from 15 to 60 minutes and can be provided in the patient's room or treatment area.
• Chair massages focusing on the patient's neck, shoulders, head, arms and hands are scheduled for 15-minute sessions.
• Foot and leg massages are offered in 15- and 30-minute sessions and can be completed while the patient is in bed or in a recliner.
• Full-body table massages are available in 15-, 30- and 60-minute sessions.

Massage Schedule

Radiation Oncology
Fifteen-minute chair massages are available on Wednesdays in the department. Patients must have a doctor's order for the service and then sign up with the massage therapist.

Inpatient Oncology & Outpatient Treatment Center
On Tuesdays and Fridays, massages are available in 15-, 30- and 60-minute sessions. Please speak with your nurse for assistance in securing a physician's order. Your nurse, case worker or other hospital caregiver can assist you in scheduling an appointment.

What to expect with a chair massage
A massage chair is designed to allow a seated client to rest by leaning forward into a chest and face support. Clients remain clothed during the session. The therapy focuses primarily on the neck, shoulders, head, arms, hands and back. Minimal make-up and hair disarray may occur.

What to expect with a massage in a hospital bed
Clients remain gowned and/or covered. They are evaluated by their health status and medical treatment to determine lotion application, type and pressure of massage and their positioning in the bed. Clients should give the therapist feedback about their comfort level.

For more information
For additional information about massage therapy, please call (480) 412-5000.

Support the program
For information on making tax-deductible donations to Banner Desert programs, including massage therapy, contact the Banner Health Foundation of Arizona at (602) 747-4483.