Oncology Massage Certification

Treatments for most cancers mostly are invasive, from chemotherapy to surgery. Oncology massage has been show to be beneficial both physically and psychologically in cancer patients. According to the Institute for Therapeutic Massage Inc., major hospitals such as Johns Hopkins and Massachusetts General Hospital are encouraging visits to therapists in patients with cancer in addition to conventional treatments.

Coursework

• Classes must be taken to receive certification. These classes include anatomy, physiology, manual lymphatic drainage, oncology massage, foot reflexology, chair massage, aromatherapy, Swedish massage and externship. The externship is completed before graduation and is done completely under supervision.

Admission Requirements

• Students applying for the oncology certification program must be 18 and older. They must be fluent in English and provide proof of high school graduation. In addition, a letter from a qualified physician must be presented ensuring the student is in healthy condition. Contact schools for applications and submit it along with an application fee. Students will be contacted for interviews.

Length

• The length of the program can vary depending on the professional's background education. For example, a certified massage therapist or physical therapist will need additional courses for oncology certification that add up to less than a year. However, with no prior therapist background, the program can be longer. Some professionals choose to specialize in certain techniques only, such as lymphatic drainage.