The uncomfortable and painful complications of lymphedema, which develops in the limbs, can be effectively treated with a specific type of massage therapy.
Lymphedema is nothing more than a watery swelling caused by a disorder in lymphatic circulation, which always occurs in one limb. Lymphedema is also quite common in the USA.
It often occurs as a complication after cancer treatment, particularly breast cancer, but can also result from other conditions affecting the lymphatic system.
It is estimated that lymphedema affects about 1-3 million people in the USA. This prevalence translates to approximately 0.3-1% of the population.
However, among cancer survivors, particularly those who have undergone treatment for breast cancer, the prevalence can be significantly higher, with estimates ranging from 15% to 30% depending on the type of cancer and treatment.
It occurs predominantly in women.
The problems arise from a certain degree of underfunctioning in lymphatic circulation, which can be caused by congenital abnormalities or disorders resulting from other diseases. Among the latter, various vascular diseases, infections such as erysipelas, osteoarthritis, and accidents can be mentioned.
Tumors spreading to lymph vessels and nodes can also be responsible for the appearance of edema, and the problem often occurs after the treatment of breast tumors, when lymphatic circulation becomes obstructed due to the removal or damage of lymph nodes during surgery or radiation therapy.
Without proper treatment, lymphedema can lead to serious complications. Trophic disorders, eczematous, and inflammatory symptoms may appear on the skin, and lymphatic drainage through the skin can lead to ulceration. It is important to note that the affected limb becomes more prone to infections, so even minor injuries must be protected.
Lymphedema is not curable, and its treatment aims to prevent deterioration and complications. For this purpose, compression bandaging or stockings can be applied at home, as well as circulation-improving exercises. In the early, intensive, hospital-based phase of therapy, mechanical compression is also used to promote the reduction of edema trapped in the limb.
As part of the comprehensive treatment, lymphatic drainage massage is also effective in reducing lymphedema. This special technique was developed by Danish Dr. Emil Wodder in the 1930s. Our therapists also follow this method.
By using manipulations on the connective tissue, the fluid is diverted from the damaged area to the healthy side with intact lymphatic circulation. Lymphatic massage employs gentle, circular, pressure-stroking movements, thereby eliminating lymphatic congestion.
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