Comfort Massage for the Seriously ill and for Caregivers
Relieving your discomfort, support for your recovery and emotional well-being
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| Gentle Touch Therapy |
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The difficulties of coping with serious illness can be overwhelming. Regardless of how a person looks or feels, unconditional nurturing becomes essential. A skilled massage therapist can be an invaluable support during this challenging time for patient and caregiver alike.
A serious illness can be one of the most difficult challenges life can present. For those in hospital, home, convalescent or hospice care, comfort oriented massage can relive stress and anxiety, reduce pain and tension, and provide relaxation. Restorative to both body and spirit, caring human touch offers comfort and solace to those experiencing physical and emotional distress, the loss of function and the disruption of normal routines.
Massage can help a person feel better after invasive treatments by reducing muscle tightness and decrease painful swelling caused by fluid retention. Pressure sores often heal faster and their occurrence decreases as local circulation is gently increased to surrounding tissues. As attention shifts from physical discomfort to pleasurable sensation, the nervous system calms, breathing eases, rest deepens and pain is relieved or reduced.
A skilled practitioner can help ease the emotional strain of illness and its consequences. This kind of accepting, non-demanding presence can bridge the isolation and loneliness experienced by one who is ill and bedridden, offering reassurance that they are still touchable regardless of their changing situation.
Touch for the dying. A person approaching death may experience intense and rapidly changing feelings and physical responses. Caring touch is one way to make a difference in a person's remaining time with accepting and flexible nurturing. Regardless of specific needs, a skilled attentive touch can reassure a person of his or her worth and humanity.
Please call or email our office for pricing regarding this service - special pricing can be arranged upon financial need.
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Massage and Cancer
Enhancing quality of life, a gentle and adaptable approach - support for the body, mind and spirit
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| A gentle adaptable approach |
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No matter what stage of cancer you are experiencing, massage therapy offers a chance to let go of and receive the healing effects of relaxation. Under the nurturing hands of you practitioner, you will be cared for with a therapy that addresses not your disease, but you as a whole person. Even in a crowded schedule, you will find massage to be a completely different experience - restorative and healing.
Your massage therapist can offer extra pillows or bolsters for your comfort if needed. It is not necessary to lie in a particular position, such as face down. In fact, therapists can massage a person confined to a bed or a wheelchair. Keep in mind that any input into your system, massage can tax your energy. Short sessions may be best at first, to help you and you therapist judge what works for you. Depending on your stamina and pain levels, your therapist may want to adjust or reschedule a session. She or he will work with you in partnership to determine the approach and technique that best meets your needs.
Many people find that medications do not completely ease their pain, Although drug therapies are often used to treat pain and depression in terminal cancer patients, the side effects and level of efficacy don't always make things better. The effects are temporary and will NOT replace the need to continue researching lifestyle strategies for end-of-life pain management. Still massage provides physical and psychological benefits that may interrupt the cycle of distress. It can also decreases inflammation and edema, increase circulation, promote relaxation, and releases positive endorphins that may temporarily distract patients from pain and depression.
Research confirms the benefits of these therapies as reported in: Journal of Pain and Symptom Management; International Journal of Oncology, Biology and Physics; and Cancer Nursing, as well as, the Annals of Internal Medicine (Sept. 16, 2008).
Please call or email our office for pricing regarding this service - special pricing can be arranged upon financial need.
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Lymphatic Massage Therapy
Reduction of swelling due to injury, surgery, cancer treatment, or an illness such as sinusitis or fibromyalgia
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Lymphatic Massage is in advanced technique with various levels of training. It is being used by massage therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and nurses.
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The lymph system plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Lymph fluid is rich in immune cells that fight viruses, cancer and bacteria. It circulates through the body, transporting these cells where they are needed. Lymph passes through Lymph nodes which produce new immune cells and filter out toxins and wastes. The swollen "glands" you feel when coming down with a virus are your lymph nodes working.
Lymphatic massage can reduce pain and swelling following removal of lymph nodes during breast cancer treatment. It can also reduce discomfort of breasts and nipples during and after pregnancy.
Lymphatic massage is used in facial treatments to reduce congestion and puffiness. It is also very effective in decreasing swelling and bruising from cosmetic surgery such as breast reduction or implants, liposuction and laser surgery.
Lymphatic massage uses light, rhythmic touch to enhance lymph circulation. This improves the flow of immune cells, making it easier for the body to fend off disease and infection. Increased lymph circulation also helps reduce the body's load of waste and toxins. This frees up resources that you body can use for tissue repair and maintenance, keeping you healthy and in balance.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema, an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the superficial tissues, is a very common and serious condition worldwide. It has important pathological and clinical consequences for the patient if left untreated.
Secondary lymphedema is often caused by trauma to the lymphatic system, such as surgery, injury, scarring, infection and radiation therapy.
Post-mastectomy lymphedema of the upper extremity caused by breast cancer treatment is very common in the United States.
Another cause for lymphedema is malformations of the lymphatic system (primary lymphedema). In such cases the swelling may appear after simple accidents such as sports injuries, which can suddenly overload the lymphatic system.
Stress, illness, excess fluid from infection, and blockages or injury to lymph vessels can leave you feeling fatigued, achy or ill. Lymphatic massage is extraordinarily effective in helping to restore lymph function, which can address a number of health challenges.
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| For Wellness and Recovery |
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Please call our office to discuss appointment scheduling, payment options and arrangements for any of the above treatment services. These services can be performed in our office or where treatment is most beneficial to the patient.
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