Rolfing and Lymphedema

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ProudMom_Wife
ProudMom_Wife Member Posts: 634
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

Hello, I am in the early stages of research on whether or not to do Rolfing.  The reason why I am considering trying Rolfing is because I am lopsided after my BMX reconstruction.  My non-cancer side never dropped completely.  It actually had more trauma and bruising, both after the BMX and exchange surgery and due to the port placement and removal, so the thought is that scar tissue has built up and prevented the implant from dropping completely.  I really would like to avoid a revision and my acupuncturist suggested Rolfing to help with the deep scar tissue in my chest.  

I do not show any signs of lymphedema and have seen a PT twice as a precaution and do stretches and massages per her instructions.

I am wondering though if the deep type of massage/technique which is used in Rolfing could trigger lymphedema and thought you folks might have some insightful input on the subject.

Thank you 

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Comments

  • buttercupwithab
    buttercupwithab Member Posts: 106
    edited September 2011

    I did the full complement of Rolfing many years ago.  I think today they segment the treatments so that you don't have to complete the entire course.  This was years before my BC and Mastectomy.  While I am a major devotee of massage, I found rolfing very strenuous and would be very careful of LE - I've been blessed to not have this either even with 13 nodes.  They took photos before the Rolfing process and after every session and they are able to reconfigure the fascia and realign the body.

    Good luck in whatever you decide to do.

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  • LindaLou53
    LindaLou53 Member Posts: 929
    edited September 2011

    Hi Proud mom. Until your post I had never heard of Rolfing so had to do a little research on it. I also happen to be participating in a Lymphedema Certification course today and have access to the course instructor who is a MSPT, CLT- LANA therapist. I asked her to read your post and she feels that Rolfing may carry significant risk to your current Implant and potentially your lymphatic system also. That type of deep tissue massage and fascia work would typically be discouraged for anyone at risk for lymphedema.



    At the very least you should get approval from your plastic surgeon that it is safe regarding your implant. Also the Rolfing therapist ideally should be someone well aware and experienced with Lymphedema risks and the special treatment needs of a breast cancer and reconstruction patient. The treatment regimen would need to be adapted to your special needs.



    Please exercise caution and due diligence in exploring this method before deciding to attempt it. Have you discussed more mainstream treatment protocols with your PT therapist for body alignment correction and scar tissue management? Another consideration might be the low level laser if there is a therapist in your area well experienced in it's use to help reduce scar tissue.

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  • ProudMom_Wife
    ProudMom_Wife Member Posts: 634
    edited September 2011

    Thank you both for your comments. I will be calling my PT on Monday, but didn't think to talk with my PS about Rolfing, silly me. Sometimes I wonder where my brain is. Thank you so much, this helps a lot and gives me more to think about and to discuss with my both my PT and PS.

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  • ProudMom_Wife
    ProudMom_Wife Member Posts: 634
    edited September 2011

    Just wanted to post this in case others were thinking about it.

    Talked with both my PT and PS this morning.  Both said it was not a good idea to do the Rolfing at this point in my journey because it involves seperating the muscles with deep massage techniques and could damage the implant or cause the implant to move in a way which would be unfavorable.  My PT also said that it might increase the risk of lymphedemia at this stage on my journey since I am still considered to be in the healing process.

    Edited:  My PT has done rolfing herself, so I feel very comfortable with her recommendation for me to not do it at this stage in my healing. 

    So no rolfing for me.  

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  • NatsFan
    NatsFan Member Posts: 3,745
    edited September 2011

    Good for you for checking it out ahead of time.  That's what I love about this forum - we all look out for each other!

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