Breast and Anterior Chest Massage

Breast and anterior chest treatment in Registered Massage Therapy involves the therapeutic assessment and treatment of the muscles, fascia, and tissues of the chest, including areas around and sometimes under the breast tissue. This treatment can address issues such as postural dysfunction, muscle tension, scar tissue (e.g., from surgery or injury), and breathing restrictions.

Purpose and Benefits:

• Relieves tension in the pectoral muscles, which can contribute to shoulder, neck, and upper back pain

• Improves posture and mobility in the upper body

• Reduces discomfort related to scar tissue from surgeries like mastectomy or augmentation

• Supports lymphatic drainage and reduces swelling or congestion

• Enhances breathing capacity by releasing tight fascia and muscle restrictions in the chest

Clinical Considerations:

• Informed consent is mandatory and must be clearly documented, with the client having the option to decline or modify treatment at any time.

• Draping techniques are used to maintain client comfort and privacy.

• The treatment is performed only when clinically indicated and appropriate, following a thorough assessment and discussion of client goals to ensure safe, respectful, and effective care in this sensitive area.

Breast and chest treatment is a valuable part of holistic care in Registered Massage Therapy- particularly for clients dealing with posture-related issues, surgery recovery, or chronic upper body tension.

What a Patient Can Expect from Breast Massage with a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT):

1. Thorough Assessment and Discussion:
   Before any treatment, the RMT will conduct a detailed health history review and assessment. They’ll explain why breast or chest massage is clinically indicated (e.g., for postural issues, scar tissue, lymphatic drainage, or pain relief) and discuss the benefits and risks.

2. Informed Consent:
   Breast massage is only performed with the patient’s explicit, written, and verbal informed consent. The patient can withdraw consent at any time. The RMT will clearly outline what areas will be treated, what techniques will be used, and how privacy and comfort will be maintained.

3. Professional Draping and Privacy:
   The RMT uses professional draping techniques to ensure only the area being treated is exposed, and only when necessary. Respect for boundaries and client comfort is a top priority.

4. Gentle, Specific Techniques:
   Techniques may include myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, or soft tissue mobilization around and under the breast tissue and chest muscles (e.g., pectorals). Pressure is always adjusted to the patient’s comfort level.

5. Post-Treatment Support:
   After treatment, the RMT may offer home care advice, such as stretches or breathing exercises, and will check in to see how the patient felt after the session.

Reasons to consider Breast Massage with an RMT:

• Relief from upper chest or shoulder tension

• Scar tissue mobilization (e.g., post-surgery, soft tissue trauma- such as a seatbelt over the anterior chest in a car accident.)

• Lymphatic congestion or breast tenderness

• Postural correction

• Support for breast health and mobility

This treatment is always optional, respectful, and guided by clinical need and patient comfort.