Lymph flow can slow due to many factors. Diet, lifestyle, high stress levels, physical trauma/injury are a few things that may affect your lymphatic system. Manual lymphatic drainage stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid and drains the tissue of excess water and protein. The movement of this fluid assists the body in maintaining its intrinsic ability to move lymph. These treatments can be beneficial for an extensive list of symptoms/conditions. A few examples are: pre and post operative care, autoimmune conditions, skin conditions, acute injuries, swelling during pregnancy, insomnia, headaches, congestion, digestive issues and lymphedema. 

The treatment is very gentle and focused to the skin and areas high in lymph nodes. MLD can be used for maintenance as well as done intensively, it’s best to consult with a lymphatic therapist that will explain and put forward the treatment plan that is best for you. 

Lymphedema is a common disease amongst adults and children due to a disruption or malformation to the lymphatic channels or the loss of lymph nodes. It is very commonly seen in breast cancer survivors, as well as an after effect from surgeries in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Injuries, radiation and cosmetic surgeries are other common causes. Lymphatic insufficiency may not be obvious immediately but these causes place individuals at life long risk of the onset of lymphedema. Seeing a certified lymphatic therapist if you have been diagnosed is suggested and reduces the side effects of lymphedema, allowing for more comfort in the body and an ability to manage this condition. 

Treatments for lymphedema vary depending on each case. It’s common to receive 4-5 treatments a week, for a duration of 1-8 weeks depending on the severity. There is often a measurable reduction in fluid in 2-4 weeks. These treatments are referred to as complete decongestive therapy and involve manual lymphatic drainage as well as compression bandaging. Bandages are provided in clinic after your first appointment as well as information on how to get permanent compression garments. Once permanent compression is received the maintenance phase begins, where clients will come in once every 4-6 weeks only for lymph drainage massage. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, noticed an area of your body with swelling, experience a feeling of heaviness, feel restricted in range of motion, or are just curious about these treatments please feel free to reach out to Alexa.

She is looking forward to offering manual lymphatic drainage as well as lymphedema management appointments.

RAPID NFR Neurofascial Reset targets the nervous system and fascial restrictions to release pain and restore movement. Rapid can reduce pain in both acute and chronic conditions, making it effective for those dealing with recent injuries or long-term issues. It can help with a wide range of conditions, including:

- Chronic pain

- Sciatica

- Frozen shoulder

- Headaches and migraines

- Back pain

- Tendonitis

In a Rapid session, you'll remain fully clothed, and the treatment will be quicker than traditional massage therapies. I will work with your body using precise movements, targeting specific areas that might feel restricted or painful. There’s no oil or lotion involved, and the focus is on retraining your nervous system and fascia to let go of old holding patterns. You'll likely feel a noticeable difference in pain relief and range of motion by the end of the session, but some may experience temporary discomfort as the neurological system is stimulated to reset pain patterns.

 Most clients experience noticeable results after just one Rapid session, but for more lasting relief, I typically recommend a series of 3 to 5 sessions. Depending on the nature of your pain, how long you've been dealing with the issue, and how your body responds to the treatment, some clients may find that they only need occasional follow-ups, while others may benefit from regular sessions to maintain optimal mobility and pain relief.