Massage Therapy Aids with Lymphedema

Posted: July 12th, 2013

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a health condition that causes tissue swelling in particular areas of the body. Individuals with this medical condition have a poorly functioning lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for moving clear fluid through the body's circulatory system toward the heart. One of the major functions of the lymphatic system is increasing the body's immunity. Therefore, repairing the lymphatic system is vital to assist in avoiding illnesses. There are lymph nodes throughout the body such as the tonsils located in the throat. Individuals with lymphedema usually have swollen tissue in the abdomen, neck, face, arms or legs. Long-term lymphedema may lead to thick and rough skin near the swollen tissue.

Relieving the Discomfort of Lymphedema

Many individuals feel relief from pain during massage therapy as lymph fluid is released from the body's tissues. Massage therapy from an aesthetician is suitable for mild, moderate or severe cases of lymphedema. In addition, massage therapy in a spa environment is appropriate for both primary and secondary lymphedema. Experienced aestheticians know the correct massaging strokes to release lymph fluid that has collected throughout the body's tissues. The gentle kneading pressure of massage therapy increases a client's blood flow while relaxing muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Specialized Massage Therapy for Lymphedema

An individual with lymphedema will experience less discomfort as the swelling near lymph nodes decreases. Improving a client's quality of life thorough massage therapy is an important goal for aestheticians. Cancer patients often experience lymphedema after radiation treatments. A physician may suggest that an individual recovering from cancer have massage therapy to reduce the symptoms of lymphedema. When an individual visits a spa, the aesthetician will use specific massage therapy treatments to help the client get through the difficult days of living with lymphedema. CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK!