Did you know that some 3 million Americans suffer from Lymphedema?

At Everyone’s Massage Therapy Services, LLC we provide Manual Lymphatic Drainage for the symptoms of mild lymphedema. Lymphedema is swelling in various parts of the body, including one or both arms, after surgery such as a mastectomy.

But what causes lymphedema?

There are both secondary and primary causes of Lymphedema. Secondary Lymphedema includes cancer, cancer treatment, tumors, and surgery. It can also be caused by primary illnesses such as those that are genetic or hormonal depending on the individual.

Who Performs the Therapy?

First, it is a serious condition that should not be handled without a proper understanding of the illness and should only be performed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). These therapists have received over 157 hours of Lymphedema Therapy Training, which includes Complete Decongestive Therapy and Manual Lymphatic Drainage. This type of therapy increases circulation of the lymphatic system to reduce the build-up of lymph fluids.

How to know What Stage of Lymphedema You Are In?

There are several stages of Lymphedema, each of them are very serious.  These include Stage 0, Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3. Let’s look at each of them a bit more closely.

Stage 0—Also called Latency, this stage occurs when the lymphatic vessels are damaged but not visible.

Stage 1—During this stage, the tissue in your body is at a non-pitting stage and bounces back after pressing. It looks normal, but still is suffering from the condition. (spontaneously reversible)

Stage 2—Is denoted by spongy tissue that is called ‘pitting.’ (spontaneously reversible)

Stage 3—Swelling becomes irreversible to the areas affected and your tissue is unresponsive and hardened. In some cases, a surgery called “de-bulking” may be required, but this is not a proven treatment method.

Your symptoms will tell you the exact stage of lymphedema you are in.

How a Certified Lymphedema Therapist Can Help?

A therapist with over 157 hours of Lymphedema Therapy training can offer true relief from your symptoms and the effects of this illness. These therapists are trained to carefully maneuver your lymph system and reduce the build-up of lymph fluids. The entire treatment is designed to improve your condition through manual lymphatic drainage. This process involves multiple sessions and can keep you from suffering further from complications of Lymphedema.

Your massage therapist will use gentle pressure to move waste fluids from the area of build up on your body. The process is not painful and doesn’t come with any added pressure or stimulation. Your massage will last approximately 60 – 75 minutes. It’s recommended you do one massage per day four or five times per week for a minimum of two weeks and up to four weeks. However, your case will likely be different from the next. If any pain or discomfort is felt during or after your massage, be sure to let your therapist know as well as your physician.

Also, a word of caution, don’t hire a therapist who doesn’t have at least 135 hours of Lymphedema Therapy education.  If not, you could be putting your health at risk.

We, however, have the experience needed to perform a healthy lymphatic massage. Contact us today for more information about your options and our process.