Lymphedema Massage Therapy

What is Lymphedema?

Before we get into the job of a lymphedema massage therapist, let us first tackle the treatment’s condition.

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Lymphedema is the accumulation of fluid in any body part, usually in the arms and legs. The name is derived from “lymph nodes” or “lymph vessels,” which are components of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system serves as the passage of a body fluid know as lymph fluid. Aside from that, the lymphatic system also serves as a passageway for bacteria, cellular waste, excess body fluid, and tissue proteins to be excreted out of the body.

The cause of fluid accumulation is the blockage, insufficiency, or removal of the lymph vessels or lymph nodes. Without well-functioning lymph vessels, fluid cannot pass out of the body. It is then deposited into surrounding tissues, causing thickening and swelling. When not properly managed, the site can facilitate the growth of bacteria and subsequently cause infection.

Significance of a Massage Therapist

The excess fluid found in specific body parts can be drained through the process of lymphedema massage. A massage therapist conducts pressurized strokes to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid back to the bloodstream. Once the fluid is in the blood stream, it can then be eliminated through the normal excretion process. This method is called manual lymph drainage, done with rhythmic massage movements.

A lymphedema massage therapist has to be well trained as inefficient massage strokes can cause undesired effects. Too much pressure to the skin can increase the flow of blood, thus leading to more fluid accumulation in tissues. Increased fluid accumulation can facilitate more bacterial growth and infection. This in turn can cause the formation of fibrous tissue, which can limit the patient’s movement.

Training to be a Lymphedema Massage Therapist

The effectiveness of massage in lymphedema treatment relies heavily on the skill of the massage therapist. Efficient training is then essential for effective manual lymph drainage. Here are some steps to consider should you decide to become a lymphedema massage therapist.

Massage Training. If you are new to the field of massage, you will need to enroll in massage training programs to be knowledgeable on the different massage techniques. Look around your locality for community colleges or private schools that offer massage therapy trainings, specifically on lymphedema massages. Trainings can take 100 or more hours to complete, depending on the requirements dictated by your state or area.

Medical Knowledge. You should consider taking medical-related courses like anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. These courses give you additional information on lymphedema and its treatment options. They can also come in handy when you are up against certifying or licensing examinations.

Experience. After academic training, you would need to satisfy a certain number of units of related experience or internship. This is usually a requirement for eligibility to a licensing examination. You can avail of internship opportunities from the school you enrolled in or at massage clinics.

Licensing. Once you have completed your state board’s specified number of training and internship hours, you can now sign up to take the licensing examinations. The exams would cover topics like general theory, massage history, pathophysiology of lymphedema, anatomy, and kinesiology.