Spa massage and risk of Lymphedema question

havehope

Hello,

I would like to go to a spa for a body massage, scrubbing, maybe a body wrap ( not too hot, I don't like it hot). I had 8 nodes removed on my left side and 4 nodes removed from the abdomen (ocva). I do not have lymphedema and I sure want to keep it this way. 

What do you recommend? Can I go or not really?  If I go, should I tell them about my situation?

Thank you. 

pupmom

Havehope, you really need to ask your surgeon about this. Personally, I would not let anybody massage or scrub my arm on the bc side, or wrap it in anything. I would also alert the esthetician to my condition. JM2B.

2miraclesmom

I had mild lymphedema during chemo. My LE therapist said to wait a while before I go and to only go to one that has LE training. Even then she said be careful with that arm. Now I have not had trouble with that arm since radiation was finished. I do know that the wonderful massage therapist I used to see does have experience with LE and I plan on seeing her for the first time after dx next summer.

Binney4

Havehope, hello!

You really would benefit from a visit with a well-trained lymphedema, since they're the medical professionals trained to deal with lymphedema. Any doctor on your team can give you a referral. The therapist will do baseline arm and leg measurements for future reference, give you personalized risk reduction tips, teach you a gentle lymph massage you can use prophylactically, and possibly fit you for compression garments to wear for travel and exercise. S/he can especially help with assessing the risks you've mentioned here.

Here's the problem: deep massage can contribute to lymphedema just like a blood pressure cuff does, by squishing the delicate lymph vessels near the surface of our skin and overwhelming the compromised system. Any abrasion to the skin (like a scrub) can create micro-cracks that allow bacteria to enter, and stagnant lymph fluid that might be lying around then creates the perfect incubator for bacteria growth and serious infection, further damaging the lymph system. Heat, of course, draws lymph fluid, which is exactly what you don't want to do. Besides both arms and chest being at risk, your lower trunk and and leg on the side(s) where nodes were removed are also at risk.

BUT, you sure do need and deserve a way to relax and be rejuvenated. Which is why working with a well-qualified lymphedema therapist can help you come up with safe and satisfying ways to pamper yourself and heal. Here's how to find one near you:
http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Finding_a_Qualified_Lymphedema_Therapist.htm

I sure hope that helps. Please keep us posted!

Gentle hugs,
Binney

ruthbru

I just get the facials when I go to a spa. They are very nice and pampering.