Physio to reduce swelling Lymphatic Drainage Massage

 Physio to reduce swelling

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) 

This type of physiotherapy can reduce the swelling and discomfort caused by the build-up of fluid. By stimulating the flow of lymph, MLD can also help:

• oedema of the upper and lower limbs
• venous insufficiency
• lower limbs ulcers
• fluid retention in the lower and upper limbs
• mastectomies
• fractures or after operation of the upper and lower limbs
• arthroplasty
• ankle sprain
• soft tissues injuries (muscular contusions) 
• strengthen your immune system.  
• swelling in Pregnancy

MLD is one aspect of decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT) or complex decongestive therapy (CDT). 

If you develop #lymphoedema after having cancer treatment, a type of physio called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) can help relieve the symptoms. Your physiotherapist uses light, rhythmic massage techniques to move excess fluid (lymph) towards healthy lymphnodes. These lymphnodes then drain the fluid through your lymphatic system, as normal. 

Therefore, physiotherapists usually recommend compression bandages, special skincare, you can also try Pressotherapy (intermittent pneumatic compression pump) and exercises to do at home alongside MLD. We also teach you simple massage techniques. 

You might need to have MLD  for a few weeks. Your physiotherapist will create a treatment plan that's right for you.... if you want more advice please follow my Facebook page.. #romynamenendezphysiotherapist

What Can You do to Relieve Swelling?

1. Hydration is key. I always recommend my patients water with cinnamon and Pineapple no sugar please. 
2. Foods that are natural diuretics (foods that increase excretion of fluids through the kidneys) include asparagus, celery, artichokes, carrots, watermelon, cucumber, tomato, parsley, eggplant, cranberry juice, cabbage, apple cider vinegar, beets, ginger, brussel sprouts, and lemon.
3. Your protein intake needs increase about 100 grams per day. Low albumin (protein) levels in your blood can cause lower blood osmolality (“thickness”) and result in fluids “leaking” out of blood vessels into surrounding tissues (edema). You should eat protein every 2-3 hours in the 3rd  trimeser. “Thicker” blood will draw the fluid back into your veins to be excreted by your kidneys.
4. Garlic and parsley oil pills (they come together in one gel capsule) can also help reduce edema. Take 3 pills by mouth at bedtime.
5. Reducing your sugar intake can limit water retention. Remember sugar is in all carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, bread, grains, dessert) as well as fruits. And tropical fruits have a higher sugar content than other fruits.
6.  Compression stockings can also help. 
7. Immersion in water can decrease edema. 
8. Massage therapy can also return fluid to the general circulation to help excretion through the kidneys. Choose a good massage oil and you can massage your legs or have your partner do so at home.

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