Balsam Rose Massage

(972) 837-5260
Book Now
  • Home
  • Treatments
  • Contact Us
  • Blog

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD)

December 23, 2020 by balsamrosemassage Leave a Comment

Tweet

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (Vodder Method)

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage? 

A gentle, rhythmic form of massage designed to increase the movement of lymph in the body.  This technique was developed by Dr. Emil and Estrid Vodder in 1932.  It is the most well-known manual technique for aiding lymphatic drainage. 

The Lymphatic System consists of lymph vessels and several organs, all of which contain lymphatic tissue.  It is part of the immune system; it also helps to eliminate toxic or waste material from the body.  Some key functions of the lymphatic system are:

  • Returns protein and water to the cardiovascular system and helps maintain fluid balance in the body
  • Absorbs protein, fat and fat soluble vitamins
  • It is part of the body’s immune system and responds to foreign cells, microbes and cancer cells
    • The lymphatic system produces white blood cells which are activated by contact with viruses and bacteria, and foreign particles in the lymph fluid. Once activated, they form antibodies and start to defend the body.

The lymphatic system relies on lymphatic vessels to collect and transport lymph fluid to the bloodstream.  These vessels are distributed throughout our body even in the brain, as was discovered in a recent study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2015.  Lymph fluid is directed to the lymph nodes where they are filtered.  Lymph nodes are found primarily in the neck, the armpits, the abdomen, the groin area, and behind the knees.

General Effects of Manual Lymph Drainage:

  • Soothing effect – the light pressure of the strokes promotes a parasympathetic response i.e., takes you out of the fight or flight mode
  • Analgesic effect – helps to reduce pain by closing the “gates” which normally allow pain signals to reach the brain
  • Decongests the tissues and restores them to normal tissue condition
  • It helps accelerate the transportation of bacteria and allergens to the lymph nodes where white blood cells can destroy them and protect the body
  • Increase of lymphatic drainage of fluids

 

Technique:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage encompasses 4 basic techniques with the key technique or stroke being predominantly a circular stretching of the skin.  The pressure is generally very light and gentle but can vary depending on the types of tissue being worked on.  These techniques are designed to increase the movement of lymph and interstitial fluid and mimic the movement or flow of the lymph.  They are performed directly over the skin.  The lymphatic system relies on the pumping of the heart and activities such as walking (exercises) to help move lymph.  Manual lymph drainage massage creates a pumping effect to help move or direct lymph towards the lymph nodes.

 

Contraindications:

Despite the many benefits of this modality, there are certain conditions that would not be indicated for receiving this treatment.  General contraindications (concerning the entire body) are:

  • Acute cellulitis – inflammation of the skin
  • Untreated congestive heart failure (cardiac edema)
  • Acute untreated deep venous thrombosis (DVT)
  • Fever
  • Metastatic or malignant disease (Therapist would need to work with treating physician)

 

Neck Treatments (all general contraindications plus):

  • Cardiac arrhythmia (ex. A-V block, a vagal stimulus may cause cardiac arrest)
  • Hyperthyroidism (risk of additional thyroid hormones could be introduced into blood circulation)
  • Patients with a history of or risk of Arteriosclerosis and clients over 60 (risk of embolism caused by arteriosclerotic plaque)

 

Abdominal Treatments (All general contraindications plus):

  • If trying to get pregnant
  • Radiation fibrosis, R. colitis, R. cystitis (R = radiation)
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Diverticulitis and diverticulosis (small and large intestines)
  • Liver cirrhosis (portal venous hypertension)
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (even following surgical repair)
  • Unexplained Pain (because we do not know what the underlying problem is)
  • Implanted devices (e.g., drains, feeding tubes, colostomy bags, morphine pumps any implanted device, mesh implants, etc.)
  • Others (hernias, cysts, inflammation “itis”, etc.)

 

More precautions are required for the following:

  • Renal Dysfunction (kidney disease) – a doctor’s note would be required for MLD treatment
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Bronchial asthma
  • Hypotension
  • Diabetes

 

Consideration for clients with post deep venous thrombosis (DVT):

Clients with a history of DVT and those at risk for an episode will be treated with extra caution.  The location and length of time will impact the treatment approach for each client.  A physician referral and/or verbal ok should always be obtained and presented to the Massage Therapist prior to the lymphatic massage.  If approved by the treating doctor, it is generally safe for a client to receive MLD 6 months after the last acute episode if the DVT was in the lower extremities (i.e., the legs).  

If the DVT was in the abdomen, pelvic area, or if an inferior vena cava filter was inserted to trap blood clots, the therapist will avoid deep pressure to the abdomen during MLD.

 *No deep pressure will be given to clients receiving anticoagulant drugs such as Warfarin (COUMADIN)

 

 

 

Filed Under: massage info and tips

Body Sculpting with WoodSculpt

November 24, 2020 by balsamrosemassage Leave a Comment

Tweet

WoodSculpt or Wood Therapy is a non-invasive, painless, body sculpting technique in which wooden tools are used to contour the body.  There are many forms of Wood Therapy.  It was developed in Asia and used for therapeutic purposes.  The technique was adopted by Columbian beauty professionals who went on to create different types of wood therapy tools and techniques.  WoodSculpt, as performed at Balsam Rose Massage, is the trademark of PureSculpt Beauty and is derived from Wood Therapy.

WoodSculpt activates the production of elastin or collagen, thereby toning and firming the skin.  Each wooden instrument has a specific function and its application is particular to the area of the body being worked (such as the arms, legs, abdomen, etc).  For example, the barrel roller stimulates circulation and activates the lymphatic system.  It allows for intensive work on the hypodermis, thus reducing the appearance of cellulite; whereas the paddle roller warms up the tissue and is perfect for small areas like the waist, hips, and legs, etc.  WoodSculpt helps diminish cellulite while toning the body and face.  It activates the lymphatic system and smooths out unwanted bulges, leaving the skin smooth.  Clients are able to see visible improvements after one session.   

Contraindications for Wood Therapy:

  • Medical diuretics, hernias, pregnancy (ok after 6 weeks post-delivery), breastfeeding (Wood Therapy can spike milk production or decrease it as well)

After the treatment, clients may experience the following:

  • Some redness of the skin due to the increased blood flow to the area(s) worked during the session
  • Frequent urination, bowel movement
  • Symptoms of detox such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, bloating, cramping, gas, and soreness
  • Clients will also experience reduced pain, inflammation, and increased energy levels

 

Filed Under: massage info and tips

Which Massage is Best for You?

September 3, 2019 by balsamrosemassage Leave a Comment

Tweet
Massage is more than a once-in-a-while luxury.  They have long-term physical and medical benefits, especially when incorporated regularly into your self-care routine. Each massage is tailored to incorporate different techniques designed to target problem areas.  Deciding which massage is best for you can really help improve your quality of life and well-being.  Consider your ongoing and acute physical and mental needs when opting for massage therapy treatments. Here is a quick guide to the most common health problems and massage modalities that help alleviate them.
  
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massages are most beneficial for those with chronic muscle pain and tension. It is commonly used to break down adhesions and scar tissue. It also helps to improve posture and aid in improving limited mobility. Slow, firm strokes and deep pressure is used to relieve the sources of pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
 
Swedish Massage
Swedish massages are great for rehabilitation after injury, improving flexibility, stimulating the immune system, and relaxation. Swedish massage uses a long, kneading strokes towards the direction of the heart and light tapping to stimulate the top layer of muscles. Joints are also moved to keep them flexible and mobile.
 
Prenatal Massage
Expecting mothers experience pain and discomfort from the added weight of the baby and changes in their bodies. Prenatal massages can help with discomfort by reducing swelling, alleviating back pain, improving circulation, and relieving stress and anxiety. Swedish massage techniques are also used in this type of massage.
 
Hot Stone Massage 
Hot stone massages aid with relaxation, stress management, and promote better sleep. With this massage, hot, flat stones are used in conjunction with muscle manipulation to keep the muscles soft, long, and pliable.
 
Cupping
Cupping is great for those that suffer from pain, poor circulation, anxiety, fatigue, and adhesions. Cupping also helps to relieve inflammation, detox the body, and remove cellulite. During a cupping massage, silicone, glass, or bamboo cups are used to create suction on the skin. The cups can then be left stagnant or used to massage the skin while still being suctioned.
 
Foot Massage
It may seem obvious, but foot massages target the feet as the area of focus. This massage is used to relieve pain, tension, edema, and to improve circulation to the feet. Both gentle and firm massaging, stretching, and rubbing is used during a foot massage. 
 
Getting regular massages can be a crucial component of achieving and maintaining good physical and mental health. If you are still having trouble deciding which massage is best for you, speak with a licensed massage therapist that can help you.  If you are in the Houston area, schedule an appointment with Balsam Rose Massage to get your treatments started with a personable,  licensed professional today! 

Filed Under: massage info and tips

Copyright © 2021 · Balsam Rose Massage · 5850 San Felipe St., Ste 500
Houston, TX 77057 · Powered by ThriveHive