#171 Can Massage Spread Cancer? What Every Massage Therapist Should Know About Oncology Massage with Janet Penny, RMT

Your next client may be living with cancer, recovering from surgery, or managing the long-term effects of cancer treatment. Are you confident in your ability to provide safe, effective massage? In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I'm joined by Janet Penny, RMT, oncology massage educator, and co-author of Oncology Massage: An Integrative Approach to Cancer Care. Janet shares her journey from social work to massage therapy, how she found her way into oncology care, and why oncology massage awareness belongs in every massage therapist's clinical toolkit. We explore the common fears surrounding massage and cancer, the importance of informed treatment adaptations, and how thoughtful intake, careful listening, and client-centred care can transform the therapeutic experience. In this episode, we explore: What oncology massage actually is and why it matters in every massage practice. Whether massage is appropriate during cancer treatment, after surgery, and at end of life. The common misconception that massage can spread cancer. What therapists need to know about ports, PICC lines, radiation, lymph node removal, and other treatment-related considerations. Why listening, communication, and client-led positioning matter. How oncology education can expand your clinical confidence and career opportunities. Where to find training and resources to become oncology massage-aware. Whether you're a new graduate, an experienced RMT, or a clinic owner supporting a team of therapists, this conversation will encourage you to keep learning, ask better questions, and recognize the meaningful role massage therapy can play in someone's life. 🩵 My favourite software for online booking and charting is Jane.app, and now the Radical Massage Therapist community can try Jane.app for 1 month using code: RADICALRMT1MO 🩵 Resources from Janet https://drive.google.com/file/d/13qF51MmXk0v6QgtaGHSJiJnlkLKh9meG/view?usp=drive_link Connect with Janet Visit Oncology Massage Canada for training, educational resources, and information about Janet's introductory and advanced courses. Connect with The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast Email: [email protected] Website: www.theradicalrmt.com Instagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist Live your best life, powered by your massage career.