The reader will gain the confidence to administer massage to their clients who have a history of cancer treatment. They will clearly know how to adjust their massage techniques in order to give massage sessions in a safe manner. Therapists and other health care providers will understand the real issues that are of concern to practitioners embarking on work with a client treated for cancer. In the past, metastasis was thought to be the issue. Now, science understands that genetic mutation and hormonal influences are responsible for rise and spread of cancer. Mechanical action, such as massage, does not play a role in the spread of Cancer. What practitioners will gain from "Medicine Hands" is knowledge of the real issues regarding cancer and massage. These reasons revolve around the type of treatments a client has received, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Oncology professionals will use "Medicine Hands" to gather ideas about ameliorating the side effects of conventional cancer treatments. It will be a resource in advising their patients in the use of complementary and alternative modalities.

Table of Contents

Preface Chapter 1-Introduction Chapter 2-Dispelling the Myths About Metastasis: Facts About How Cancer Spreads Chapter 3-Touch-Rx for Body, Mind, and Heart: A Review of the Research and Literature Chapter 4-Reclaiming the Body: Bodywork for People Living with Cancer Chapter 5-BE-ing is Enough: Comforting Touch for the Dying Chapter 6-Massage at Respite: Caring for the Caregiver Chapter 7-Companions on the Journey: Who Gives? Who Receives? Afterword Appendices

About the Author

Gayle MacDonald, M.S., L.M.T., began her career as a teacher in 1973 and as a massage therapist in 1989. In 1991, she blended her two career paths. Since 1994, the author has given massage to cancer patients and supervised massage therapists on the oncology units of Oregon Health and Science University. MacDonald is a frequent contributor to the three main massage journals in the US. Presently, she travels the US teaching continuing education courses in oncology massage. MacDonald is the author of Massage for the Hospital Patient and Medically Frail Client (Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2005).

Reviews

"I couldn't hold back the tears while reading the personal stories throughout this book, which is unusual in its compassion and information content. I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone with an interest in Cancer and Bodywork." - Sandra Goodman, Positive Health.