How massage therapy can help after breast surgery

Did you know that 1 out of every 18 Americans is a cancer survivor? This number could exceed 22 million by 2035. While these numbers are encouraging, about 316,950 new cases of breast cancer are expected in women this year, and 2,800 new cases in men.

As the United States observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the highly skilled occupational, physical, and massage therapists at High Quality Home Therapy share their insights on lymphatic massage and how this therapy can support individuals following breast surgery.

The lymphatic system and your overall health

Chances are you’ve heard of lymph nodes or experienced swollen lymph nodes with an infection, such as mononucleosis. But have you ever wondered why they are necessary for your overall health?

Lymph nodes are one of many specialized tissues, cells, and organs that make up the lymphatic system, a complex system that plays a central role in your immune system.

Lymph nodes are filters that capture and destroy harmful bacteria and toxins using special immune cells called lymphocytes. The lymphatic system also maintains body fluid levels and performs a garbage-in, garbage-out sanitation function. Another essential role is that it works with the digestive system to absorb vitamins and fats and transport them to your bloodstream.

Cancer treatment can disrupt healthy lymphatic function

When in top shape, the lymphatic system protects the body from infection and filters out toxins, abnormal cells, or old cells your body no longer needs. Similar to blood and the circulatory system, free-flowing lymphatic fluid is the optimal scenario for your health.

With breast cancer, the key therapeutic modalities often include breast-conserving surgery, frequently combined with surgery to remove lymph nodes plus radiation therapy – all of which can disrupt free-flowing, healthy lymphatic function. This scenario sets up a perfect storm for lymph fluid build-up, a condition known as lymphedema. 

Massage therapy can help

The good news is that massage therapy can help. At High Quality Home Therapy, we offer lymphatic and post-surgical massages performed by specially trained physical therapists, occupational therapists, and licensed massage therapists. For patient convenience, we offer lymphatic and post-surgical massages at our Stamford and Westport clinics, as well as in your home throughout Connecticut, New York, Maryland, Virginia, and Colorado.

The overarching goal of lymphatic and post-surgical massage is to boost the body's lymphatic system by triggering the release of lymph fluid build-up, which reduces inflammation. Manual lymphatic drainage, also known as lymphatic drainage massage, is a technique therapists use to free up lymphatic fluid.

A lymphatic and post-surgical massage typically takes about 45-55 minutes, but some people prefer 85 minute full body massages.  Although there are variations in lymphatic and post-surgical massage, the underlying execution is the same. A trained therapist uses gentle, rhythmic movements to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid by redirecting it to remaining functioning lymphatic components or vessels. Once the build-up drains, swelling goes down, creating space for the lymph fluid to move freely.

If you are being treated for breast cancer or are undergoing surgery and want to learn more about lymphatic and post-surgical massage, contact High Quality Home Therapy in Stamford, Connecticut. Use our online booking feature or call us today to schedule a consultation.