Dear Clients,
I'm writing to inform you of potential changes affecting HSA and FSA plan coverage for 2025. I've recently had several clients whose HSA cards were declined when they tried to use them here.
One client was told that her HSA wouldn't cover massages at my business because we're categorized as a health and beauty spa. This same categorization might also affect FSA eligibility.
Because of this, I strongly advise you to confirm coverage with your insurance provider before trying to use your HSA or FSA cards for my services.
I understand this may be inconvenient, and I sincerely apologize for any disruption it causes. I hope that HSA/FSA coverage will be reinstated in the future.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, your body's built-in waste disposal network. The Vodder method uses very light pressure, often described as a "light touch" or "pumping" action. Therapists focus on stretching and moving the skin rather than applying deep pressure. By lightly stimulating specific areas of the body, a trained therapist can help drain lymph fluid and improve circulation.
This can lead to several potential benefits, including:
- Reduced swelling: One of the primary benefits of MLD is its ability to address lymphedema, a condition that causes fluid buildup due to a compromised lymphatic system. MLD can help reduce swelling in the arms, legs, and other areas of the body.
- Improved healing: MLD may also aid in post-surgical healing by reducing swelling and inflammation, which can promote faster recovery.
- Pain management: Studies suggest that MLD may help manage chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Boosted immune system: A well-functioning lymphatic system is important for immune function, as it helps remove waste products and fight off infection. MLD may help optimize this process.
- Other potential benefits: Some people also experience relief from bloating, fatigue, and skin concerns like puffiness and cellulite. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
*Cancer patients & Survivors - please see Oncology Massage here -
ONCOLOGY MASSAGE
Who can benefit from lymphatic drainage?
Everyone can benefit from Manual lymphatic drainage including:
- Pre & post cosmetic/post surgical patients
- Those who suffer from chronic fatigue
- Those who suffer from constipation
- Patients with fibromyalgia
- Cancer patients and survivors - However, if you’re a cancer patient or cancer survivor I highly recommend you see an Oncology Massage Therapist. I know of a few in the DFW area that I would be happy to refer you to and I would rather have you in the best hands!
What to expect after an MLD Session
Feeling light and fluffy
Brain fog
Sinus Drainage
Ear Drainage
Tiredness, wanting to rest or nap
Shifts in congestion (one side to the other) or pressure changes in joints or areas where prior trauma has a occurred
Reduction in swelling and headaches
Increased odorous urination
Increased odorous bowel movements
Temporary change in your body odor
Increased sweat
Deeper and more restful sleep
- It is not uncommon to feel “sick” after your lymphatic massage especially if this was your first session and/or your body was holding to a large amount of waste.
Frequency
The recommended frequency for manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massages depends on your individual needs and goals. Here's a breakdown:
General Wellness:
- For maintaining overall health and well-being, once a month is a good starting point.
Specific Conditions:
- Pre-Op- Recommended within 1-2 days prior to your procedure. This helps reduce the amount of swelling you would normally get after your procedure as it jump starts your lymphatic system to work at a faster rate than normal.
- Post-surgery or injury: During the initial recovery phase, two sessions per week for 2-3 weeks are often recommended to manage swelling and promote healing. As healing progresses, the frequency can be reduced to once weekly up to 6-8 weeks post op depending on your healing process.
- Chronic conditions: The frequency can vary depending on the condition. Consult a healthcare professional or certified MLD therapist to determine the optimal schedule. Examples include:
- Lymphedema: Regular sessions are typically needed, potentially daily in severe cases (usually with a PT or OT until you reach a maintenance stage). Maintenance: weekly or bi-weekly.
- Chronic pain: Every two weeks may be beneficial.
- Chronic fatigue or detox: once a week for 2-3 weeks to start.
Here's a general rule of thumb:
- Start with more frequent sessions: When addressing a specific concern, begin with a higher frequency (e.g., weekly) and gradually decrease as improvement is seen.
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel after a session. If you experience any discomfort or worsening of symptoms, discontinue and consult a healthcare professional.
Important points to remember:
- Always consult your doctor first: Discuss if MLD is appropriate for you and your health condition.
- Seek a certified therapist: Ensure your therapist is properly trained in MLD techniques.
- Schedule for relaxation: MLD is meant to be a relaxing experience. Schedule appointments when you can unwind and enjoy the calming effects.
Enhance your MLD session with Dry Brushing
Dry brushing can be a helpful addition to a manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) session for a few reasons:
- Prepares the Skin: Dry brushing acts as a gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and any oils or debris on the skin's surface. This can improve the effectiveness of MLD by allowing for smoother gliding of the therapist's hands and better access to the lymphatic channels just below the skin.
- Stimulates Circulation: The brushing action itself can provide a mild stimulation to the lymphatic vessels and surrounding tissues. This increased circulation can help nudge stagnant lymph fluid and prime it for the more targeted work of MLD.
- May Increase Receptivity: Some believe dry brushing can heighten the skin's sensitivity, making it more receptive to the therapist's touch during MLD. This could potentially enhance the effectiveness of the manual drainage techniques.
Enhance your MLD Session with the Dolphin Neurostim- Vagal Nerve Stimulation.
The vagus nerve is a major communication highway connecting your brain to many organs, including your heart, lungs, and gut. It plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for your body's "rest and digest" response. When chronically activated, the fight-or-flight response can lead to symptoms like fatigue, stress, and anxiety.
The Dolphin Neurostim device offers a non-invasive way to stimulate the vagus nerve. It does this by delivering gentle electrical pulses through a clip attached to the earlobe and an electrode pad attached to your stomach, which targets both the auricular branch and the abdominal branch of the vagus nerve.
By stimulating the vagus nerve, the Dolphin Neurostim may help in several ways:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Lower cortisol levels
- Improve heartrate variability
- Improved mood
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved sleep quality
- Improved digestion
- Potential benefits for managing long-term COVID symptoms (early research)
- Reduced Stress Response: VNS can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, counteracting the effects of chronic stress and promoting relaxation.
- Improved Mood Regulation: The vagus nerve is linked to brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood. VNS may help regulate these chemicals, potentially improving mood and reducing anxiety symptoms.
- Enhanced Gut-Brain Connection: The vagus nerve also plays a role in the gut-brain axis, which is a two-way communication pathway between your digestive system and brain. VNS may help regulate this connection, potentially reducing stress-related gut issues and overall contributing to a calmer state.
- Consult your doctor: Before using the Dolphin Neurostim, discuss it with your doctor to ensure it's safe for you and to determine if it's an appropriate approach for your specific needs.
- Complementary Therapy:
VNS with the Dolphin Neurostim is best considered a complementary therapy, used alongside other evidence-based treatments for chronic fatigue, stress, and anxiety.
If you're interested in exploring VNS with the Dolphin Neurostim, talk to your doctor and a qualified healthcare professional to see if it might be a good fit for your situation.