With many people struggling from swelling and congestion in their arms and legs, Lymphatic Drainage Massages are designed for Lymphoedema sufferers. But how effective is this treatment? Read on to find out about our upcoming most popular procedure here at Olive!
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphatic Drainage massages are used to help clients suffering from Lymphoedema, but what is this?
Lymphoedema is a problem within the body’s lymphatic system, in which the vessels and glands are unable to drain excess fluids produced from the tissues. It presents itself in two types: Primary and secondary Lymphoedema. Primary is caused by genetics, often found within the earlier stages of life whereas secondary is caused by infections, cancer treatments, or lack of movement. It’s often found Lymphoedema appears worse in the colder months for many patients due to an increase of dryness in the skin through the use of indoor heat but is present throughout the year.
An Introduction to Lymphatic Drainage
To combat these issues, it’s recommended to undergo treatments that help push this fluid to areas less congested and allow for more movement. One of these processes is manual Lymphatic Drainage massages, a hands-on approach where the masseuse physically directs this build-up. This technique aims to relieve pain and discomfort whilst primarily reducing
swelling. Additionally, here at Olive, we also offer Lymphastim Pressotherapy, a treatment that uses a specialist machine to apply similar pressure to certain areas and move the fluid
around. Due to the precise nature of the machine, it’s able to offer more targeted pressure and help focus on specific problem areas.
How can Lymphatic Drainage Massages help?
It’s important to note that lymphoedema cannot be cured but this treatment is here to support the reduction in symptoms. The lymphatic system additionally plays a role in the
immune system, causing sufferers to find it harder to fight off illnesses. By carrying out the therapy patients often see an improvement in their overall health and day-to-day living. This includes mental health benefits or being more mobile. In conjunction to this, a common symptom of Lymphoedema is the feeling of heaviness within the upper and lower
limbs. This is due to fluid build-up causing swelling within these particular areas and a tightening sensation. Lymphatic drainage is targeted to divert the fluids from these areas and
help manage the extra weight.
Does Lymphatic Drainage Massages hurt?
Often there can be a misconception that this procedure is painful or irritating, however, when performed correctly the massage shouldn’t hurt (you must go to a trained professional
when getting any lymphatic drainage massages in accordance with this). The treatment only affects the skin, so little pressure is used when performing the drainage, and infected areas
are avoided to ensure no further damage is done. This also goes for Lymphastim Pressotherapy, although the suit may look daunting it’s intended to only apply enough pressure to alleviate the fluids, not hurt.
How to prepare?
These are some steps we encourage our clients to take to help prepare their bodies and get the best results from the massage:
– Drink plenty of fluids
– Avoid heavy meals before
– Wear minimal clothing
– Use a dry body brush at home and scrub skin to help lymphatic flow
– Relieve bladder before
Next steps
We hope this has provided an insight into Manual Lymphatic Drainage and the benefits it offers when incorporated into your well-being routine. If you’d like to book a Lymphatic treatment, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. Don’t forget to check out our blogs for more tips and useful advice!