Lymphapress

Never heard of that --but I did just have several sessions with a therapist who used a "Lymphatouch' machine on my arm.

Kerrie, the Lymphapress is one of several devises usually called "pumps" that can be used as an addition to regular lymphedema treatment (which does not require machines of any kind). Standard treatment for lymphedema is called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and consists of four parts: a special hands-on massage called Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), use of compression (layered bandaging in the early stages, compression garments once the swelling is reduced), special exercises, and careful skin care. Initial treatment is done by a specially trained therapist, and we learn the steps to do all those aspects ourselves so we can "graduate" to self-care.

A pump is used as a partial substitute for the self-MLD once therapy is completed. It's still necessary to do part of the MLD by hand each time before using the pump, and the pump sessions are about an hour long and confining, so you'll want to consider whether you have the time to spend to use it. (Self-MLD takes time daily too, but it's much more flexible in terms of time spent and being able to adjust to family or job demands.)

There are a few brands of multi-chamber sequential pumps, and they're not all created equal. The Flexitouch is generally considered the gentlest and most suited to early-stage lymphedema, while the Lymphapress might be prescribed for someone needing more force. Another popular brand with some therapists is BioCompression. Where I live, Lymphapress's sales tactics have come in for criticism, whereas the others tend to have less of a difficult reputation. Might be entirely different where you live, but you might want to consider who's selling it to you and how much pressure you're under to purchase it. There should be NO sales pressure, especially seeing that it's not strictly necessary in most cases.

The Lymphatouch, on the other hand, is without a track record, with no research evidence of it's efficacy or safety. While the use of sequential pumps is supported by some evidence, the Lymphatouch is a bit of whimsy that claims to "expand and stimulate" the skin and underlying tissue using negative pressure. Hopefully it's harmless, but considering the relative delicacy of the lymphatics and their proximity to the surface of our skin, that's not a sure bet. Inspie, do please share your results with us!

We have a number of other pump users here, and hopefully they'll be along to share their experiences with you. Or search under "Lymphapress" in this forum and I'm sure you'll find lots of threads about it.

Hope some of that helps!
Be well,
Binney

Kerrie, keeping up with self-care is daunting, for sure. I get a lot of encouragement from the other women here, and I sure need it. I do have a Flexi and use it for flares, but find it too confining for everyday use. Others here, though, use it daily and depend on it, even take it with them when they travel. Definitely an individual decision. Let us know what you decide.

As for longing for a quick fix, we're all with you on that!

Be well,
Binney

Any update on the Lymphatouch?

Are there any updates/personal experiences with the LymphaTouch machine? It appears to use "cupping" type treatment and I see Youtube videos by LE massage therapists on how to use the device. Just wondering if there is more information from actual users. Thanks.