Lymphedema treatments include:
- Exercises
Light exercises that move the affected limb may encourage fluid drainage and help prepare the body for everyday tasks. The exercises should not be strenuous or tiresome but should focus on gentle contraction of the muscles.
- Wrapping the affected limb
When the entire limb is bandaged, it encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body. Bandages should be tightest around fingers or toes and loosen as it moves up the arm or leg.
- Massage
A special massage technique called manual lymph drainage may encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of your arm or leg. Additional various massage treatments such as massage guns or massage chairs may be helpful as well. Make sure to contact a physician before deciding on which techniques work best.
- Pneumatic compression
Includes a sleeve that is worn over affected arm or leg that will connect to a pump that sporadically inflate the sleeve, putting pressure on the limb to move lymph fluid away from fingers or toes.
- Compression garments
Long sleeves or socks made to compress the arm or leg to encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of affected area.
- Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
This approach involves combining therapies with lifestyle changes. CDT is not usually recommended for people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, paralysis, heart failure, blood clots or acute infections. Check with a physician.
Is massage good for lymphedema?
Massage treatment can benefit a patient with lymphedema. Although, deep tissue massage could potentially be too heavy for someone with lymphedema. There are certified lymphedema therapists (CLT) and, some physical or massage therapists have had oncology and pathology training.
Lymphedema refers to an accumulation of lymphatic fluid within one area, also known as swelling. Gentle massage encourages movement of lymph fluids throughout the body in a specialized lymphedema massage.
One solution may also be to look into massage chairs as an alternative therapy that could save time and money over the long haul. A good massage chair should be designed to provide some measure of pain relief and relaxation without the need for person-to-person interaction and, some have the option of controlling the intensity. Some people would agree that opting to go with a massage chair as a potential means to ease their chronic pain allows the user to get a massage in the privacy of their home, on their time, and on their own schedule.
Massage therapy increases endorphin levels – conceivably the most valuable aspect of massage. Endorphins are the ‘feel good’ chemicals that run through the body, increasing their levels, inducing positive results. Among other benefits, increasing endorphin levels has been associated with swifter recovery, reduced pain and reduced anxiety.
While more research is needed to confirm the benefits of massage, studies have found massage may also be helpful to:
1. Lessen depression and anxiety
2. Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow
3. Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin
4. Increase joint flexibility
5. Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation
6. Paresthesia and nerve pain
7. Reduce spasms and cramping
8. Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller
9. Arthritis
10. Relieve migraine pain
Why does massage help lymphedema?
Lymphatic drainage is a specialized, gentle type of medical massage. It may be used as part of your lymphoedema treatment. The aim is to encourage the lymph fluid to move away from the swollen area, so it can drain normally. It also helps lymph fluid drain through the healthy lymph vessels.
The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from bodily tissues. Some health conditions can cause lymph fluid to build up. Lymphatic drainage massages can benefit people with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, and other conditions.
People can develop lymphedema as a result of infections, cancer treatments that involve the removal of lymph nodes, and any condition that damages the lymphatic system.
Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. Lymphatic massage usually forms part of a treatment program called decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT).
Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit people who are experiencing the following:
- Lymphedema
- Fibromyalgia
- Swelling or edema
- Skin disorders
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Stress
- Digestive problems
- Arthritis
- Migraine episodes
Negative Effects of Massage Therapy on Lymphedema
If massage therapy is applied to lymphedematous tissues, an increase in swelling may result. Massage causes an increase in arterial blood flow where applied, resulting in more water accumulating in those spaces. Due to mechanical insufficiency inherent in lymphedema, the lymphatic system will not be able to manage the additional water load.
Research shows that, depending on the severity of symptoms, some sufferers may initially experience some pain from the massage. However, it is essential to note that healing is a process; massage therapy will produce the sought-after long-term positive results with some patience. Steadily increased pressure over time is an ideal protocol. Premium massage chairs for home use would provide the ease and frequency of access as well as pressure control, which would be a perfect option for many who suffer.
Talk to a healthcare provider first before considering massage for lymphedema; ask about the number of treatments that might be needed, the cost and type, and the insurance coverage if any. Despite its benefits, massage is not meant to replace regular medical care, and be sure to follow any standard treatment plans already in place.