Lymphatic drainage massage is a highly specialized massage technique performed on patients with lymphedema and lipedema to help manage painful symptoms. If you suffer from common complications associated with either disorder, such as discomfort and swelling, lymphatic drainage massage will surely benefit you.
Lymphatic drainage massage was first introduced by the Austrian medical duo Emil Vodder, PhD and Estrid Vodder, PhD, in 1932 following clinical investigation of the lymphatic vessel system. Their research eventually led them to develop a series of light, rhythmic manipulations to stimulate lymphatic flow and fluid movement. Since then, the unique massage technique has evolved to help consciously manage and mitigate the most troublesome symptoms associated with lipedema and lymphedema, and should always be performed by a licensed therapeutic massage therapist, It is not something to be taken lightly.
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
It is the unique technique that uses a gentle and strategic massage of the muscles and skin to promote the body's natural lymphatic drainage processes. Those who suffer from lipedema and lymphedema experience dysfunction of the body's lymphatic flow, resulting in a severe buildup of fluid in the underlying tissues causing pain, swelling, and tenderness.
The lymphatic system relies heavily on the inherent contractions of muscle cells within the walls of the lymphatic vessels and on the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to the lymph nodes and then into the lymphatic ducts.
Manual lymphatic drainage uses less than nine ounces of gentle pressure, pushing, prodding, and circular massaging to stimulate lymphatic flow. While surgical intervention remains the dominant therapy option for long-term successful lipedema control, both cosmetically and medically, regular sessions of lymphatic drainage massage in conjunction with wearing compression garments have proven beneficial for many. patients living with the painful and disturbing effects of lipedema.
Lymphatic drainage massage is also a conservative way to superficially control the disorder for patients who may not be ready for surgery. However, it should be noted that lymphatic drainage massage does not remove fat buildup from tissues, rather it simply manipulates the underlying tissues to help the buildup of lymph flow, which can significantly reduce pain, pressure and the swelling.
How often should it be done?
While every patient is different, it really depends on the stage of the lipedema and how much massage and muscle manipulation you can physically handle. Some patients find even the slightest touch intolerable, while others have a higher pain threshold.
In general, most patients with lipedema start with 1 or 2 sessions a week or a few times a month and progress up to five sessions a week. Some patients even continue sessions long after liposuction to help maintain optimal and healthy flow of lymph buildup.
As with any new treatment consideration, patients with lipedema should always consult with our specialist, the Dr. Daniel J. Rodríguez Morales de los Ríos, before undergoing any form of therapy to control symptoms.
For more information and recommendations, contact our Center at Canary Islands Lipedema Unit. We will be happy to assess your case.
Do you want our exceptional specialist, the Dr. Daniel J. Rodríguez Morales de los Ríos, value your case? Call us, we will be happy to assist you!
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