Gentle Scar Tissue mobilization techniques for post-mastectomy & radiation clients

2 days – with Jamie Elswick

 

Many breast cancer survivors experience pain, lymphoedema, reduced range of motion, and even frozen shoulder after treatment. This course focuses on understanding the basic effects of surgery and radiation on the tissues, and how scar tissue mobilization can restore healthy functioning to the fascial/musculo-skeletal system.

The Lauren Berry Method of Corrective Massage™ will be used to address both the treated area and compensatory areas of soft tissue. Understanding the function of the lymphatic system is equally important. There will be a thorough discussion of the lymphatic anatomy and instruction in basic drainage techniques for the torso. All techniques are of a gentle nature, out of respect for the potential trauma that can be held within the treated tissues, the compromised nature of the lymphatic system, and the residual effects of radiation therapy, as well as surgery. This course will include lecture, hands-on, and supervised sessions with clients. 

As a result of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the effects of mastectomy surgery

  • Describe the effects of radiation therapy, both acute and long-term

  • Discuss potential emotional trauma held in tissues

  • Describe both the benefits as well as contraindications for scar tissue mobilization

  • Describe the effects of scar tissue from surgery and radiation

  • Discuss the anatomy and function of the lymphatic system

  • Perform basic lymphatic drainage techniques to the torso

  • Perform scar tissue mobilization to areas treated with surgery and radiation

  • Perform corrective massage techniques to treated and compensatory soft tissue areas

Pre-requisite

'Massage for People Living with Cancer', 3-day course by Gayle MacDonald

About Jamie:

Jamie Elswick, LMT BSc has been working as a massage therapist since 1992. Her training includes structural body work based on restoring health to the mechanics of the musculo-skeletal system, scar tissue mobilization, lymphatic drainage, and visceral manipulation. 

 

She completed a 400 hour certification course in oncology massage with Gayle MacDonald LMT MS and Dr. Sandy Canzone DOM; both of whom are pioneers in the field of Oncology Massage. 

 

She works with clients in all stages of cancer treatment and post treatment.  She holds a BS in Natural Sciences and is the head anatomist in the dissection lab for medical students at the University of Alaska.  She is currently a post-grad student at UAA studying radiation fibrosis as a result of radiotherapy for breast cancer. 

 

Dates: TBA  2018, 9:00am-6:00pm

Location: Edinburgh Academy Junior School

 

Cost: £250.00