No matter what the cause may be, unwanted, long-term swelling can create a wide range of problems. Particularly if people are less mobile, or tend to spend a lot of time in one position (sitting, standing or lying), fluid can build up, creating discomfort, reducing range of movement and potentially limiting quality of life. Thankfully, in many cases, a lymphatic drainage massage can bring relief. This traditional massage technique has been used for decades to help relieve the problems which fluid build-up can cause. Suitable for the back, legs, arms, feet or hands, massage can really make a difference, both immediately and as a long-term treatment.
Relief for your Lymphodema
Lymphatic drainage massage is undertaken using a special massage technique called effleurage. This involves a gentle pressure and movement of the hands which pushes fluid towards the lymph nodes. Once fluid reaches the nodes, it can be transported elsewhere in the body, using the lymphatic drainage system. The lymphatic system assists in the detoxification of the body, as well as providing a transport system for lymph cells, which are a key part of the body’s defence system. Lymphatic drainage massage can help to stimulate the working of the lymph system, potentially providing it with the boost it needs to begin working more effectively.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage – Post Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that usually creates pooling of excess lymphatic fluids. This result in swelling and discomfort for the patient. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised massage technique that is recommended by plastic surgeons, after liposuction, to accelerate the recuperation period.
The science behind why this massage works is fairly simple. Stroking the areas of the body that process the lymph fluid, and the lymph nodes causes the fluid to drain.
This massage procedure works well and has been demonstrated to show positive results after only a couple of treatments! However, most patients need 4 to 6 treatments to remove most of the excess fluid. Patients can expect noticeable relief from swelling after the 6th treatment.
Lymphatic drainage massage is suitable for almost anyone
One of the major benefits for effleurage is that it can be used on people of all ages and in virtually all states of health. Appropriate for use alongside conventional treatments, it can be safely practised on those with pre-existing conditions, as well as those who are frail or in poor health. Gentle and non-invasive, many people report feeling more relaxed and tranquil after a treatment, as well as finding that the level of swelling and fluid retention which they had been experiencing has subsided.
Who can benefit?
The Lymphatic system can get impaired for many reasons but everyone can benefit from a Lymphatic Drainage Massage. People who receive regular massage tend to have fewer colds and flus! However, it is especially suited to patients who:
- Undergone chemotherapy or mastectomy as it helps in the recuperation process
- Have stopped smoking
- Are run down
- Are constantly getting sick
Lymphatic Drainage Massage should certainly be considered for treatment of the following
- Post-surgical & other forms of swelling
- Stagnation in the lower part of the body
- Obesity
- Stress Reduction
- Sinus problems, congestion
- Congenital lymphoedema
- Sprains, Strains
- Post plastic surgery
- Scar tissue reduction
- Detoxification post smoking, chemotherapy
- Reduction of Fever (Glandular/Ross River)
Effleurage massage in Brisbane
If you are suffering from lymphoedema or similar problems caused by unwanted fluid build-up, lymphatic drainage massage could be the intervention you need to find relief. Why not get in touch and find out more about how massage can benefit your body?
