Massage works to treat edema by pushing the excess fluid from the body. Swelling, particularly when triggered by blunt-force trauma, causes fluid to “pool” and collect in cavities within the body. Massage therapy guides the fluid from its collection, allowing it to be flushed through the lymphatic system.
Does massage help edema in feet?
Massage can be great for swollen feet and can also promote relaxation. Massage (or have someone massage them for you!) your feet toward your heart with firm strokes and some pressure. This can help move the fluid out of the area and reduce swelling.
What type of massage is good for edema?
Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. Lymphatic massage usually forms part of a treatment program called decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT).
Does massage help leg edema?
Massaging. Whatever the cause, massages are a fantastic way to reduce swelling in the legs. This helps people who have poor circulation of lymph, the fluid that moves around our bodies collecting waste.
Is it good to massage edema?
Hold the swollen part of your body above the level of your heart several times a day. In some cases, elevating the affected body part while you sleep may be helpful. Massage. Stroking the affected area toward your heart using firm, but not painful, pressure may help move the excess fluid out of that area.
How do I get rid of fluid in my legs and feet?
Home Care
- Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
- Exercise your legs. …
- Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
- Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
- When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.
Should you massage a swollen ankle?
Massage the ankle
Massage is a great way to alleviate pain and increase blood flow to the injured area. For less serious injuries, do your own massage at home. If the ankle is too painful, consult a qualified massage therapist.
Is walking good for edema?
The best weapon in the fight against swollen legs is a simple one: walking. Getting your legs moving means circulation is improved which will sweep up that collected fluid and get it shifted.
What exercise is good for edema?
A simple exercise that you can do at home to reduce swelling in the ankles is ankle pumps. To do this exercise, lie down and elevate the feet. Moving only the feet, point your toes up towards your head, and then down away from your head. Go back and forth 30 times, completing this exercise three times per day.
Does massage decrease inflammation?
Research has shown that massage can lower the body’s production of the stress hormone cortisol; decrease levels of the hormone arginine-vasopressin, which may lower blood pressure; reduce levels of some inflammatory cytokines including IL-4 and IL-10; and increase production of the mood-boosting hormone serotonin.