Lymphedema Drainage Massage

Archive for the ‘Lymphedema Drainage Massage’ Category

Thursday, April 2nd, 2009

Lymphedema is a condition that can occur anytime during life, with the cause being unknown unless it being a secondary cause from having lymph nodes removed, and it leads to an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial tissue. This accumulation of fluid leads to the swelling of limbs, commonly the arms and legs. Drainage massage is one of the most used and effective lymphedema treatments. Drainage of the excess built up fluid is necessary, and can be done in the form of a massage.

The lymphedema drainage massage helps removing excess fluid caused by lymphedema by using light pressure to stimulate the lymph vessels that are located just beneath the skin. By stimulating the vessels the trapped lymphatic fluid is allowed to circulate to the center of the body and out of the congested area. Being gentle during the massage is essential, as placing too much pressure can cause these small vessels to be shut down for a moment.

Lymphedema drainage massage instruction starts with understanding where the lymph nodes are located in the body so they can take in some excess fluid. Start the massage close to the nodes that have been located and gently move the fluid toward them. As the massage continues, move further away from the nodes continuously, but slowly, moving the fluid in their direction. The massage instructions are simple, but it is important to realize where exactly the lymph nodes are located and where the excess fluid is before beginning the massage.

A lymphedema drainage massage if done correctly can relieve a lot of pain from those suffering with lymphedema. The swelling can be decreased tremendously from this massage providing much needed relief, making this a great form of treatment.

Lymphatic Drainage class in Portland
These courses were developed by Bruno Chikly, MD, who has done exhaustive research on the lymphatic system and lymph drainage technique. He also authored the first comprehensive book in North America on the lymphatic system and lymphedema: Silent Waves: Theory and Practice of Lymph Drainage Therapy-With Applications for Lymphedema, Chronic Pain and Inflammation.

Edema, including Lymphedema - How to Treat
By lymphedema the drainage from the tissues through the lymph vessels are impaired or excessive fluid goes through the blood capillary walls into the spaces between the cells in a tissue.

Lymphatic System and Women’s Health - Lymphatic Detoxification
However, there are some techniques you can try at home, and for those of you who are ready to try it on your own we will be offering brief instruction on lymph massage in the near future, so check back with us again soon.