Patholoy Thread?

[bluebelle945]

How about a subject thread on pathology. I know there are a lot of new massage therapist out there that could have some questions on certain conditions they might come across, not everything can is covered in school. More exerienced therapist I find are ready to share and help however they can.

[administrator]

If there would be any interest in this I can add a forum for it.

[lmt513]

I think it would be great to have a pathology thread. I know I have lots of questions about different illnesses we may come across in our career. I am a State Tested Nurse Aide and a LMT, as a nurse aide I come across a lot of patients who have multiple conditions and I always wonder what you would do in that scenario.

[Lili Gill]

I would really like a pathology thread.
I have a question about working with clients with cancer. Besides getting the doctor's consent, what precautions must one take for working with clients undergoing chemo and post-chemo? Is lymphatic drainage appropriate? Unfortunately I went to school when cancer was a complete contraindication for any massage whatsoever.

[bluebelle945]

I have treated a handful of people with cancer. One with testicular cancer treated 20 years ago and considered cured, I did nothing out of the ordinary. He came in with a doctor’s script for shoulder pain. I treated one woman with swelling, which was the result of damage to her lymph nodes from the cancer treatments, for her I used manual lymph drainage. One young woman came in because her doctor suggested massage; she was obviously in the midst of her chemo treatments. I did light to medium effleurage with trigger point and she was grateful when I was done. I assume her doctor had sent her in for more of a relaxation session. In every case I have worked on, the doctor new the patient was receiving massage. I would not work on anyone unless his or her doctor approved.

[Lili Gill]

Thanks for your reply. It is very helpful. I kind of figured the "do no harm" ethic would be most important with cancer patients and that lymphatic drainage would be helpful. It is good to hear of someone's experience.