Lymphotherapy
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Lymphotherapy (lymphatic physiotherapy) is a method by which pressure applied on specific
lymph nodes alters lymphatic response. Proponents state it can be used for lymphedema[1] and breast cancer.[2]
History
Lymphotherapy was first suggested in 1918 by Dr. S. Artault de Vevey in the Paris Therapeutic Society as a treatment for
infectious diseases, though it had many fans as well as opponents.[3][unreliable medical source?] This treatment was popular in Italy in the 1960s and 1970s.[4] Currently, lymphotherapy practice has been documented in complementary and alternative medicine.[5][6]
Effects
Complete decongestive lymphatic physiotherapy demands substantial time and effort from patients to maintain the benefits; treatments are not always well-accepted, and patients may suffer from a deterioration in quality of life or develop enhanced anxiety. Sudden loss of bowel control was reported,[4] especially with lymphatic physiotherapy applied on the lymph nodes in the lower back.
References
- PMID 15693538.
- S2CID 13646360.
- ^ "The Paris Therapeutic Society" (PDF). The British Medical Journal: 308. March 13, 1919.
- ^ PMID 5517785.
- ^ "Boutique brings Brazilian flair to Birmingham". Detroit News. September 7, 2005.(subscription required)
- ^ "Benefits of Lymphatic Massage". AltMedicineZone.com. August 18, 2010.
Further reading
- "Legal Aspects". Research Council for Complementary Medicine. Archived from the original on 21 April 2010.
- Lymphotherapy on Adeli Eesti OÜ