THERAPIES

What is Therapeutic Massage and Lymphatic Drainage

Complimentary Therapies have become increasingly popular over the past few years due to a heightened awareness of their non-invasive, nurturing and effective way of assisting the body's healing process. By combining Complimentary Therapies and Conventional Medicine people are given powerful tools to fully participate in the creation of well-being in their body.

Several studies have been undertaken and have not proven conclusively that massage spreads cancer through the increased circulation in our blood and/or lymphatic system… if that were so then we would not be able to exercise, walk, dance, sing, or even have a hot shower beating on our back! In fact it is the opposite; the medical profession encourages moderate exercise whilst undergoing treatment.

Massage has many of the same benefits of exercise such as the points listed below:

•      Assists in relaxation, stress management and psychological well-being
•      Provides pain relief
•      Stimulates lymph production which boosts the immune system
•      Stimulates endorphin production

A therapeutic massage consists of several gentle techniques designed to relax and soothe tired and painful muscles leading to a greater sense of well-being for the client. It is usually the case that when an underlying condition, e.g. neck pain, restricted movement of a limb due to an old injury, sciatica, is eased the pain experienced during illness has been lessened. This is because the body is not fighting pain on several levels; rather it can then get on with the business of healing.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialised treatment for those with Lymphoedema, a condition caused by the removal of lymph nodes during surgery and/or radiotherapy treatment. The condition can be painful and certainly uncomfortable but can be relieved by the very gentle and skilful touch of MLD. This treatment promotes the flow of lymphatic fluid away from the treated area to available lymph nodes; thereby reducing swelling and giving greater flexibility to the affected limb as well as reducing pain levels.

All Bloomhill Touch Therapists have undertaken advanced Oncology Massage Training to work with people who have cancer related health issues, their families and carers.