One of the questions patients frequently ask is how post-surgical lymphatic massage differs from regular massage therapy. The concept is quite different from what comes to people's minds when massage is mentioned. Lymphatic massage is a very effective technique for plastic surgeons. It is frequently used to move clogged or excessive lymph fluid (edema) resulting from a traumatic injury or surgery. The technique can also help to boost the performance of the immune system.
Lymphatic drainage massage involves light to medium pressure. This massage alleviates swelling and fluid retention by increasing blood circulation and promoting relaxation. As a component of the immune system, the lymph system helps return waste items from various body parts to circulation for elimination. Lymphatic drainage massages boost lymph flow by manually manipulating fluids in certain parts. The procedure can help with water retention, cellulite, post-surgery edema (swelling), and even tension.
Lymph massage has been practiced for centuries to detoxify and cleanse the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes play a vital role in blood purification; however, the system is not flawless. A lymph massage therapist may help with that. Regular visits with a lymph drainage massage therapist may significantly enhance a person's quality of life by helping to increase circulation, remove toxins, decrease inflammation, and treat other lymph node-related disorders.
It is the lymphatic system's job to get rid of waste and excess fluid in our bodies. The system collects excess fluid from tissue gaps and sends it to the heart, where it is filtered out of the body. As part of the lymphatic system, the lymph nodes produce, store, and release immune cells that help combat foreign elements like viruses and bacteria. A massage stimulates the lymph nodes in a muscle, causing them to release the fluid accumulated in the muscle, which is then flushed out of the body. Lymph drainage massage can positively affect general health and well-being if done regularly.
The elements highlighted below are what differentiate post-surgical lymphatic massage from conventional massage therapy:
During conventional massage therapy, the therapist is allowed to customize the session to the client's needs. On the other hand, with a lymphatic massage, the provider usually starts the session with a focus on the neck. The reason is that lymphatic fluid flows into the circulatory system from here. Following that, the provider will stimulate the lymph nodes, blood vessels, and capillaries in the patient's body in a particular order.
Lymphatic massage may be recommended for various medical and stress-related issues. However, people with certain health concerns must avoid the procedure. Since the massage aids in the return of lymphatic fluid to the circulatory system, patients need to discuss any issues they have with the therapist. This guarantees that you receive safe therapy that is tailored to your specific needs.
Patients suffering from conditions like hyperthyroidism, acute inflammation, malignant tumors, DVT, and major heart problems are not eligible for the procedure. Renal failure, active cancers, and certain medications are all relative contraindications. Before starting the therapy, the therapist may have to reach out to the patient's physician for approval.
There are two types of pressure: pressure on phase and pressure off phase. The body typically transports lymphatic fluid through its capillaries at a rate of one pulse per second. Manual lymphatic massage attempts to replicate this wave-like action. It is done by exerting gentle pressure on the body in the direction of lymph flow and then releasing it. This movement entails making several passes across the impacted regions. This massage's reputation for being so soothing stems from these gentle motions.
Post-surgical lymphatic massage is a series of gentle, rhythmic motions that imitate the body's natural lymphatic pulsations. Unlike regular massage therapy, where the therapist needs oil to slide easily over the skin, lymphatic massage professionals must avoid using oils so they can make the proper motions.
With conventional massage, the therapist works on the body's muscle layer and often has to use deep massage methods to get the intended result. On the other hand, lymphatic massage works with lymphatic capillaries in the dermis. This implies that the therapist needs to apply only mild pressure to access the capillaries and move the lymph fluid through them.
If you have any more questions regarding post-surgical lymphatic massage or how it may benefit you, reach out to a plastic surgeon to book an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://paulcdillonmd.com or call Paul C. Dillon, MD Inc at (847) 429-3185 for an appointment in our Schaumburg office.
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