Zoom Room

Wednesday, Sept 16, 2026. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Massage therapy has many proven benefits for people affected by cancer. With 2 in 5 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, all RMTs should be informed about how massage therapy can help, and equally important, how to safely massage someone in the context of cancer.

 

Unfounded beliefs still pervade our conversations around massage therapy and cancer. Does massage spread cancer? Should RMTs wear gloves? Can someone in active treatment receive massage? What signs & symptoms would concern an RMT?  When should an RMT refer a patient to their physician? How can an RMT reassure their patient and sensitively work within their comfort level?  

 

In this 90-minute webinar, we’ll debunk outdated myths, highlight red flags, and list contraindications associated with cancer and massage. We’ll discuss effective communication and treatment options to help patients feel safe. We’ll review real clinical experiences and the decision-making process. While impossible to fully address this complex subject within a webinar, RMTs will leave feeling more comfortable and confident in working with people after a cancer diagnosis.

 

Learning Outcomes

*Understand the origin of common cancer-massage myths and the current science that proves them wrong

*Become familiar with cancer-related red flags and how to navigate them with your patient

*Understand when massage therapy is contraindicated and how, if possible, to modify your treatment plan to remain safe

* Learn how to reassure patients about the safety of massage therapy in the context of a cancer diagnosis

 

Susan Shipton, RMT, MClSc, CDT has been a massage therapist in Toronto since 2012 with a practice that focuses on helping people alleviate complications related to cancer treatment. In 2015, she became a Vodder-certified combined decongestive therapist, with training in manual lymph drainage, compression, and other means to manage lymphedema, a common sequela to cancer treatment. In 2021, she completed a master’s degree in advanced health care practices: interprofessional pain management through Western University.  

 

Susan regularly gives presentations to health professionals on massage and cancer, lymphedema, and aspects of pain, and has published articles in Massage Therapy Today on breast cancer, cancer-massage myths, trauma-informed care, and more. Previously, she co-presented a RMTAO webinar on oncology massage in September 2022 and was selected for the programs at the 2023 and 2024 RMTAO Education Conferences. In 2024, Susan launched an online and in-person continuing education course for RMTs on Oncology Massage. For more information, please visit www.SusanShiptonRMT.com.