Tag Archives: relaxation

NDIS Services for Lymphoedema Patients: Expert Care at Melbourne Massage and Treatment

Lymphatic System Image

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that can cause swelling, discomfort, and a range of other symptoms, typically in the arms or legs. It’s often the result of damage to the lymphatic system, either through surgery, radiation, or other health conditions. For many people living with lymphoedema, managing the symptoms can be challenging. However, with the right care and treatment plan, individuals can experience significant improvements in their quality of life. In Melbourne, the Melbourne Massage and Treatment Clinic in Fitzroy North offers specialized care for lymphoedema patients through its NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) services. Led by Giovanni, a skilled practitioner in lymphoedema management and myotherapy, the clinic provides essential treatments that help manage and reduce the symptoms of lymphoedema. Understanding Lymphoedema and the Importance of Treatment Lymphoedema occurs when lymph fluid builds up in the tissues, causing swelling and restricted movement. This condition can be secondary to cancer treatment (such as surgery or radiation), infections, or congenital defects in the lymphatic system. While there is currently no cure for lymphoedema, with the right treatment, symptoms can be managed, and flare-ups minimized. Managing lymphoedema typically involves a combination of therapies, including manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), exercise, and skin care. These approaches help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and prevent further complications. Proper care is crucial for maintaining long-term health and mobility. NDIS Support for Lymphoedema Treatment For individuals living with lymphoedema, accessing specialized treatment can often be a barrier due to cost and availability. This is where the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) comes in. The NDIS provides funding for people with disabilities to access essential services that help improve their daily lives and overall well-being. For those with lymphoedema, NDIS funding can be used to cover the costs of treatment and management, including therapies like lymphatic drainage massage, myotherapy, and other allied health services. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Giovanni offers NDIS-approved services that cater specifically to lymphoedema patients. As a skilled myotherapist, Giovanni uses a combination of hands-on techniques to relieve the symptoms of lymphoedema. His holistic approach helps patients not only manage their swelling but also reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life. Myotherapy and Its Role in Lymphoedema Management Myotherapy is an effective therapeutic technique used to treat muscular pain and dysfunction. It involves manual therapy, massage, and exercise prescription to relieve pain, improve movement, and restore function. In the context of lymphoedema, myotherapy can complement other treatments by targeting the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the swollen areas, helping to improve lymphatic flow and reduce fluid retention. Giovanni’s expertise in myotherapy makes him uniquely qualified to treat lymphoedema patients. By combining myotherapy with other lymphoedema treatments, such as manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy, Giovanni provides comprehensive care that addresses the condition from multiple angles. Services Offered at Melbourne Massage and Treatment Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North is a trusted clinic for those seeking NDIS services for lymphoedema. The clinic offers a range of treatments designed to help manage and improve the symptoms of lymphoedema, including: 1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A gentle, hands-on technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to promote the movement of lymph fluid, reducing swelling and improving circulation. 2. Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT): The use of compression garments or bandages to prevent further fluid buildup and promote the efficient movement of lymph fluid through the body. 3. Mobilisation: A myotherapy hands on treatment that aims to improve the joint mobility, that would improve your capacity of movement. 4. Exercise Prescription: A tailored exercise program designed to improve lymphatic circulation and prevent muscle stiffness and atrophy. 5. Skin Care and Education: Advice on proper skin care to prevent infections and skin breakdown, which can be a common concern for those with lymphoedema. Why Choose Melbourne Massage and Treatment for Lymphoedema Care? At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, Lymphoedema Clinic, Giovanni’s approach to lymphoedema care is based on a deep understanding of the condition and its impact on daily life. The clinic is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care to every patient, ensuring that they receive the support they need to manage their lymphoedema effectively. The clinic’s NDIS services ensure that patients can access high-quality treatment without the financial strain that can often come with ongoing medical care. With Giovanni’s expertise and the clinic’s holistic approach to lymphoedema management, patients can experience a noticeable improvement in their symptoms, making it easier to manage their condition and enjoy a better quality of life. Get Started with NDIS Services at Melbourne Massage and Treatment If you or a loved one is living with lymphoedema and is seeking NDIS support for treatment, Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North offers expert care that can help. Giovanni’s personalized approach ensures that each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific needs, and with the NDIS funding, these services are made more accessible. To learn more about how Giovanni and the team at Melbourne Massage and Treatment can help you manage your lymphoedema symptoms, or to book now a “15 minutes free initial consultation appointment” or visit the clinic’s website to contact Giovanni directly. By offering NDIS services specifically designed for lymphoedema patients, Melbourne Massage and Treatment provides a vital resource for those in need of expert care. With the right treatments and ongoing support, lymphoedema patients can lead more comfortable, healthier lives.

Melbourne Lymphatic Drainage & Lymphoedema Treatment

2 hands doing lymphatic drainage massage on an arm

When it comes to nurturing our health and well-being, many of us tend to overlook one of the body’s most vital systems—the lymphatic system. This system plays a key role in immune function, detoxification, and overall fluid balance. If you’re looking to manage a condition like lymphoedema, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can be a powerful treatment. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North, we offer expert Lymphatic Drainage Massage to support your body’s natural detox processes and help manage lymphatic health. Understanding Lymphatic Drainage Massage Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a specialized technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, encouraging the natural flow of lymph—the fluid that helps remove toxins and waste from your body. Using gentle, rhythmic strokes, the therapist focuses on areas where lymph nodes are most concentrated, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. The massage promotes the movement of lymph fluid, which can enhance detoxification, improve circulation, and reduce swelling. While traditional massage focuses on muscle relaxation and tension relief, Lymphatic Drainage Massage works primarily on the lymphatic system only. It helps the body to flush out toxins, support the immune system, and restore fluid balance. Whether you’re seeking general wellness benefits or a specific treatment for lymphatic concerns, lymphatic drainage massage effectively supports your body’s natural detox process. Lymphoedema: A Condition That Benefits from Lymphatic Drainage Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system is unable to properly drain fluid, leading to swelling, often in the arms or legs. This can result from a variety of causes, including surgery, injury, cancer treatments, or even a congenital condition. The swelling is not always painful, but may lead to mobility issues and skin problems if not properly managed. Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a highly effective treatment for individuals suffering from lymphoedema. By gently stimulating the lymphatic system, LDM can assist in moving excess fluid away from the affected areas, reduce swelling, and alleviate the discomfort associated with the condition. In addition, LDM can help prevent the worsening of symptoms and improve the quality of life for those managing chronic lymphoedema. How Lymphatic Drainage Works Lymphatic Drainage Massage targets specific areas of the body where lymph nodes are concentrated, using light pressure and rhythmic movements to help move stagnant lymph fluid. The techniques used in LDM include: Pumping Motions: Gentle, rhythmic movements help stimulate the flow of lymph fluid through the vessels and nodes. Circular Strokes: Circular, light strokes are applied to areas where lymph is likely to stagnate. Pressure Application: Gentle, controlled pressure is used to help the lymphatic system move fluid without causing discomfort. These techniques are designed to work with your body’s natural processes, enhancing lymphatic flow and reducing fluid retention. Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage Lymphatic Drainage Massage offers a range of benefits, including: Reduced Swelling (Oedema): LDM is particularly beneficial for those with lymphoedema, helping reduce swelling and discomfort. Detoxification: Encourages the body to eliminate waste products more efficiently, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Pain Relief: It reduces pain associated with chronic swelling and fluid retention, particularly in conditions like lymphoedema. This is possible because constant mechanical stimulation of the skin stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, enhancing a relaxation effect. Enhanced Circulation: LDM stimulates the blood and lymphatic flow, helping to improve circulation and reduce the risk of fluid buildup. Conditions for which LDM is Good For Lymphoedema and or Lipedema Post-Surgery Recovery Assists with reducing swelling and speeding up recovery after surgeries, particularly those involving lymph node removal (e.g., cancer surgery). Post-Operative Swelling Helps reduce inflammation and fluid retention following any surgical procedure, such as cosmetic surgery or dental surgery. Swelling reduction would come with improvement in joint mobility. Cellulite Reduction While not a cure for cellulite, LDM can help reduce the appearance of cellulite by improving circulation and promoting lymphatic flow, which aids in the breakdown of toxins and fatty deposits. Detoxification Stimulates the lymphatic system to remove waste products, toxins, and metabolic by-products, enhancing overall detoxification. Fibromyalgia Alleviates some symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as pain and fatigue, by enhancing circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage. Sinusitis and Nasal Congestion LDM can help reduce sinus congestion and improve drainage in the sinuses, alleviating discomfort associated with sinus infections or chronic sinusitis. Migraines and Tension Headaches Promotes relaxation, reduces muscle tension, and supports lymphatic flow, which can help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches. Skin Conditions (e.g., Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema) Improves circulation and supports the elimination of toxins, which can contribute to healthier skin and help with inflammatory skin conditions. Pregnancy-Related Swelling (Edema) Reduces fluid retention and alleviates swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet during pregnancy, offering comfort to expectant mothers. Improved Immune Function Supports the immune system by promoting lymphatic circulation and toxin removal, reducing the likelihood of illness. Stress and Anxiety While not a direct treatment for anxiety, LDM can promote relaxation, ease tension, and reduce stress, benefiting overall emotional and mental health. Improved Circulation Stimulates blood and lymphatic flow, helping to maintain healthy fluid balance in the body and reducing the risk of fluid buildup and stagnation. Sore or Aching Muscles Can aid in muscle recovery by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing fluid drainage. Chronic Inflammation Helps reduce inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis, reducing discomfort and promoting healing. Why Choose Melbourne Massage and Treatment for Your Lymphatic Drainage Needs? At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North, Giovanni understands the importance of tailored care for each individual. On top of his bachelor’s in Health Science Clinical Myotherapy, Giovanni trained in Lymphatic Drainage Massage techniques and took a holistic approach to health and well-being. Whether you are recovering from surgery, managing a condition like lymphoedema, or simply seeking to enhance your overall health, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Booking Your Lymphatic Drainage Massage If you’re in Fitzroy North or the surrounding Melbourne areas and are looking for a Lymphoedema Clinic that can help improve your lymphatic health, alleviate swelling, or manage lymphoedema, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can make a […]

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a health condition that causes widespread pain and sensitivity to touch. This type of condition is more common in women than in men. Is still unknown to science why some people may suffer from Fibromyalgia, even though is known that stress can play a major role. On the other hand, genetics can also be the reason why someone can suffer from Fibromyalgia. Signs and symptoms Symptoms of fibromyalgia may include: headaches sleep disturbances numbness and tingling of the hands and feet muscle and joint stiffness after a period of rest (after sleeping) restlesconditionsndrome Other conditions could occur during the manifestation of symptoms for FiTo Diagnosis of fibromyalgia To be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia you have to visit your GP at first, who may will refer you to a specialist. The most widely used clinical criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia is sourced from the American College of Rheumatology: pain and symptoms over the past week, based on the total of: number of painful areas out of 18 parts of the body the severity of these symptoms: fatigue waking unrefreshed cognitive problems (that can be memory or thought) plus other general physical symptoms symptoms lasting at least 3 months unchanged exclusion of other health problems that could reproduce the pain and other symptoms. Treatment and management So, currently, there is no direct cure for fibromyalgia, but there are many treatments that can help, like: improving your sleep routine more of a balanced diet relaxation meditation exercise MLD You can also talk to your GP to see what medications can reduce or manage the pain. Regarding MLD, it is an effective technique, as already disgusted in another blog post that can help with chronic pain management. Furthermore, MLD has a powerful relaxation effect, that can help in reducing the stress response and so alleviate the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Are you in need of treatment? Follow this link to book your next massage session.

Arm Lymphoedema Quiz

Based on the original document - Piller,NB (2006) Lymphoedema Research unit Department of surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia,  5042 (Adapted and reprinted with permission). This guide is designed as an educational aid-based primary on experience, no evidence in literature.

1. More than 10 nodes removed from armpit
2. Radiotherapy to armpit area
3. More than 2 infections (redness) in the limb per year
4. Whole of Breast Removed (Mastectomy)
5. More than 2 but less than 10 nodes removed from armpit
6. Radiotherapy to chest/breast area
7. Fluids drained from wound more than 1 week
8. Infection at the wound site
9. One infection (redness) in the limb per year
10. Heaviness, tightness or tension in the limb at times
11. Frequent cuts/scratches to the limb
12. Dry skin
13. Part of Breast removed
14. 1 or 2 nodes removed from armpit
15. Limb feels different as the day progresses

OTHER PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ADD TO RISK

16. Body weight is very high (obese)
17. Surgery was on side of dominant hand
18. Generally experience high stress levels
19. Generally have high non-controlled blood pressure
20. Body weight is a little high (overweight)
21. Frequent long distance air traveler
22. Previous or current other injuries to limb/shoulder
23. Thyroid gland activity is not normal and not medicated
24. “At risk” limb is used for repetitive actions
25. Often carry heavy loads for long periods using “at risk” arm
26 Smoking is currently part of my life
27. Swelling was present in limb prior to surgery

What to do now?

  • If you are at LOW RISK, then you will benefit from a range of appropriate educational literature that may be able to even further reduce the risk of developing lymphoedema.

  • If you are at MODERATE or HIGH RISK, then the educational materials will also benefit you. Ideally, if you are in these categories, you should have a non-invasive assessment (Bio-impedance spectroscopy or Tissue Dielectric Constants) to determine if there are already some fluid accumulations in your "risk" limb.

Independently of your level of risk, Giovanni offers 15-minute Online Consultation to better guide you on how to manage this presentation, or prevent any degeneration.

Book your free 15-minutes online consultation now.

Save as Draft

This will close in 0 seconds

Lipedema Quiz

This is not a diagnostic tool but only a guide.
To learn more about the Lipedema presentation, contact Giovanni by sending the result, or booking a free 15-minute online consultation. Be sure to include your full name and email address in the form below (At the end of the quiz).

If you prefer to contact Giovanni anonymously, call with a private number at 0449790781.

Texture of fatty tissue may feel granular and/orfibrotic
Symmetrical, disproportionate accumulation of fatty tissue (refer to picture on the Lipedema page)
The waist may be small in proportion to thighs, buttocks, and legs
Cuffs or bulges may develop around joints (e.g. ankles, knees, elbows, wrists). Feet remainunaffected unless lymphoedema is a comorbidity
Legs are often hypersensitive to touch and pressureand may feel cold
Affected areas may bruise easily with minimaltrauma
Patients describe affected areas as sore, painful, heavy, swollen and tired
Symptoms can worsen in hot weather, during orafter exercise, standing or sitting for long periods
Fat pads, which can be tender or painful, accumulate on the upper outer thighs, inner thighs, and around the knee area, can cause abnormal gait,and contribute to joint pain
Filling of the retromalleolar sulcus
Hypermobility
Soft, thin skin with loss of elasticity. Skin can havea lumpy appearance.
Non-pitting oedema and negative Stemmer’s sign on feet and hands in the absence of coexisting lymphoedemaPitting oedema is when by appling pressure to the area with a finger, for more than 60 seconds, you get left an indentation in the skin.
Difficulty losing weight from affected areas despite exercise, modified diet or bariatric surgery. If well-directed, these measures may help reduceinflammation and co-existing obesity if present
Abnormal nerve sensations
Pain on blood pressure check (larger cuff may berequired)
Relatives with similar body shape or fat distribution

Out of 17 questions, the number above, tells you how many symptoms applies to you. The more symptoms, the more luckily you are suffering from a Lipedema presentation. Get in touch with Giovanni now, via the form below, for further understanding on how to manage Lipedema presentation.

Reference list

This quiz is a reproduction of a flyer from the association Lipoedema Australia.
The reference list is Adapted from 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13,14[1] , 16, 18 and available here (PDF).

This will close in 0 seconds

Leg Lymphoedema Quiz

Based on the original document - Piller,NB (2006) Lymphoedema Research unit Department of surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia,  5042 (Adapted and reprinted with permission). This guide is designed as an educational aid-based primary on experience, no evidence in literature.

1. More than 10 nodes removed from the groin
2. Radiotherapy to the groin/pelvic area
3. Average of more than 2 infections (cellulitis) in the limb per year
4. Dry or scaly skin on lower legs/feet
5. More than 2 but less than 10 nodes removed from groin
6. Fluids drained from wound more than 1 week
7. Infection at the wound site after surgery
8. Average of one infection (cellulitis) in the limb per year
9. Frequent cuts/scratches to the limb
10. 1 or 2 nodes removed from the groin
11. Heaviness, tightness or tension in the limb at times
12. Limb feels worse as the day progresses

OTHER PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ADD TO RISK

13. Family history of leg swelling
14. Frequent long distance air/bus/car traveler
15. Previous or current other injuries to legs, ankles or feet
16. Limb is most often in a dependant position (standing)
17. Generally experience high stress levels
18. Generally have high blood pressure
19. Thyroid gland activity is not normal and not medicated
20. Diabetic but controlled by diet or medication
21. Diabetic uncontrolled
22. Some varicose veins or spider veins
23. Many varicose veins or spider veins
24. Prior varicose vein stripping and scars
25. Smoking is currently part of my life
26. Body weight is a little high (overweight)
27. Body weight is very high (obese)
28. Diet is rich in animal (omega 6) fats
29. Swelling was present in limb prior to surgery/radiotherapy

What to do now?

  • If you are at LOW RISK, then you will benefit from a range of appropriate educational literature that may be able to even further reduce the risk of developing lymphoedema.

  • If you are at MODERATE or HIGH RISK, then the educational materials will also benefit you. Ideally, if you are in these categories, you should have a non-invasive assessment (Bio-impedance spectroscopy or Tissue Dielectric Constants) to determine if there are already some fluid accumulations in your "risk" limb.

Independently of your level of risk, Giovanni offers 15-minute Online Consultation to better guide you on how to manage this presentation, or prevent any degeneration.

Book your free 15-minutes online consultation now.

Save as Draft

This will close in 0 seconds