Medicine Hands - 3rd Edition by Gayle MacDonald (Paperback)

About the Book

The only book on the market giving information on how to massage cancer sufferers.

Book Synopsis

The field of oncology massage is maturing into a discipline with a deeper and deeper body of knowledge. The 3rd edition of Medicine Hands reflects this maturation. Every chapter contains updated information and insights into massaging people affected by cancer. New chapters have been added to cover each stage of the cancer experience: treatment, recovery, survivorship, side effects from the disease, and end of life. These new chapters and organizational structure will make it easier for the reader to find the information needed to plan the massage session for a given client. In addition, a new chapter has been added that focuses on the Pressure/Site/Positioning framework. This is the clinical framework around which the massage session is planned.

Review Quotes

"An excellent resource which has long been needed by health professionals."-- "Bernie Siegel, author of Prescriptions for Living"

"Every Licensed massage therapist should have this book. Why? Because a large portion of our population has had a journey with cancer. After they are released from the Dr. and finished with treatment there may still be plenty of contra indications to consider. This book goes over them all clearly and fully. Loved the book, loved the class even more. It will be in my reference library forever!"-- "S Mclaughlin"

"Gayle's book is by my side as I massage clients diagnosed with cancer in hospital, hospice, and palliative care. It's in my massage office and goes 'on the road' with me when I make home visits. This is the 'go to' oncology massage resource for Massage Therapists at Wellspring Journey Project."-- "Patricia Kerber"

"I couldn't hold back the tears while reading the personal stories throughout this book, which is unusual in its compassion and information content. I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone with an interest in Cancer and Bodywork."-- "Sandra Goodman, Editor Positive Health"

"Massage therapists who work with cancer patients will want to get a copy of this third edition of Medicine Hands... Much more than simply a how to book, it offers support, direction, answers, and inspiration for those working in the field of oncology massage. Caregivers will also find the information enlightening and helpful as they walk this path with their loved one or client. I think this book would be very helpful for anyone who provides some form of healing touch such as reiki, since it gives a ton of information related to issues surrounding chemotherapy, radiation and surgery for cancer patients."-- "New Spirit Journal"

"This is a large format, comprehensive, fully illustrated book by Gayle MacDonald, MS, LMT, about massage therapy for people with cancer. Its credentials include the fact that it has now been published as a 3rd edition. If the subject is relevant for you, then you will do no better than to purchase, read, absorb and be inspired by this professional and sensitive book. The entire focus is on providing comfort and ameliorating the side effects of conventional cancer treatment."-- "Bill Anderton, Pilgrims"

About the Author

Gayle MacDonald: M.S., L.M.T., began her career as a teacher in 1973 and as a massage therapist in 1989. In 1991, she blended her two career paths. Since 1994, she has given massage to cancer patients and supervised massage therapists on the oncology units of Oregon Health and Science University. MacDonald is a frequent contributor to the three main massage journals in the US. Presently, she travels the US teaching continuing education courses in oncology massage.