Massage therapists play an invaluable role in helping to maintain healthy breast tissue, bringing awareness to changes in the tissue and providing relief from swelling, pain and limited range of motion, often experienced post-surgically from mastectomy or other breast surgeries (breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy, gender reassignment upper surgery).

Clinical treatment may involve lumpectomy, lymph node removal or dissection, mastectomy, reconstruction, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Breast massage can be used in all cases, but techniques and timing of sessions may be adjusted in each individual case, using a variety of techniques (effleurage, oncology massage, manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques,, scar tissue mobilisation, cross-fibre frictions and breathwork).

Benefits include bridging the gap between surgical intervention and post-op rehabilitation, releasing fascial restrictions,

helping to prevent capsular contracture and adhesions, reducing oedema and swelling, and helping to minimise scar tissue formation, softening and realigning tissue. This can increase range of motion, reduce pain, ease anxiety, and restore feelings of normalcy and self acceptance

Practical day will be in Tunbridge Wells

This course combines well with:-

Oncology Massage

Combined Lymphatic Massage

Legislation

Professional Code of Conduct

Legal Responsibilities

Informed Consent

Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction to Breast Care

Types of Breast/Chest Surgery

Stages of Healing

Post-operative Complications

Massage for Breast Care

Types and Visible Signs of Breast Cancer

Recognising Metastases

Benefits of Oncology Massage

Contraindications and Precautions

Post-operative Considerations

Techniques and pressure

Basic routine

The Use of Breathwork and Mindfulness

COST:£450

DURATION: theory at your own pace, one practical day

PREREQUISITES: Body Massage Diploma, Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology, Oncology Massage,

Understanding Scars course recommended

This course is intended for anyone who has already undertaken oncology massage course training:-

• and would like to start treating clients post mastectomy

• and would like to start treating clients post breast augmentation/ reduction/ reconstruction/ gender reassignment surgery

CPD POINTS:25

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• to develop your understanding of the role, skills and qualities of a successful massage therapist in relation to breast care

• to understand the different types of breast surgery that breast massage can help

• to understand how to adapt techniques for clients in the post-surgical rehabilitation period

• to increase knowledge of the breast tissue

ASSESSMENT

Theory assessment, practical assessment and case study – The overall pass mark must exceed 70%. If the mark is lower, a retake is available free of charge.

QUALIFICATION: Breast Massage accredited by the IGCT will act as an addition to your CPD.